The Organising Committee of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games hosted 210 representatives of the media, National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and International Winter Sports Federations in Milan this week. During the World Press Briefing, attendees gained key insights into media operations during the Games and visited some of the main mountain venues that will host the competitions.
The event, held from 20-22 November, included updates on essential services such as accommodation, transport and accreditation, as well as visits to Bormio and Livigno. These locations will host the men’s alpine skiing, ski mountaineering, freestyle skiing and snowboarding events, respectively, offering a preview of the winter experience that awaits athletes and visitors.
MILANO CORTINA 2026 FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY
Andrea Varnier, CEO of Milano Cortina 2026, stressed the importance of providing the media with the best possible conditions to communicate the vision of the Games. “We want to offer efficient organisation, breathtaking scenery, high-level venues and, we hope, unforgettable competitions. In addition, we will provide the warm hospitality of Italy, our gastronomy and the dedication of our people,” he said.
In line with Olympic Agenda 2020, Milano Cortina 2026 prioritises sustainability through the use of existing infrastructure and temporary structures. This approach aims to minimise new construction and tailor the Games to the host regions, thereby reducing the environmental impact and ensuring a positive legacy.
PREPARATIONS IN A CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE
The Winter Games face increasing challenges due to climate change, which affects the availability of natural snow and winter conditions. Milano Cortina 2026 seeks to address this challenge by using advanced technologies to ensure optimal conditions at the venues and by relying on responsible planning.
During the visits to Bormio and Livigno, attendees were able to experience the unique environment that characterises the northern regions of Italy, where mountains combine with a rich cultural and gastronomic tradition. These features, together with the implementation of sustainable solutions, aim to deliver a memorable Games.
OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES: GLOBAL PLATFORM
The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, scheduled from 6 to 22 February 2026, and the Paralympic Games from 6 to 15 March, represent a unique opportunity to highlight the values of inclusion, sustainability and sporting excellence. Events such as the World Press Briefing ensure that all involved are prepared to deliver global coverage that celebrates the athletes and promotes the Olympic ideals.
With a clear vision and innovative approach, Milano Cortina 2026 is emerging as a model of how the Olympic Games can evolve to adapt to today’s realities, while preserving its essence and relevance.
