Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo have been announced as the hosts of the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.
In addition to Milan and Cortina, the 2026 Winter Olympics of 2026 will involve other areas of northern Italy, in particular Lombardy, Veneto, and the autonomous provinces of Trento and Bolzano in Trentino-Alto Adige.
The 2026 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place between February 6-22.
There will be 15 disciplines and 14 competition venues; 95 medals will be awarded. Milan will host hockey competitions, figure skating and some inline skating competitions. Most alpine skiing events will take place in the resort of Cortina. Valtellina, to the north of Milan, will be the site for men's ski competitions, and Livigno for snowboard competitions.
IOC president Thomas Bach said: "Congratulations to Milan-Cortina. We can look forward to an outstanding and sustainable Olympic Winter Games in a traditional winter sports country. The passion and knowledge of fans, together with experienced venue operators, will create the perfect atmosphere for the best athletes in the world."
Jubilant members of the winning delegation shouted "Italia, Italia" as the decision was announced.
The opening ceremony will be on February 6 at the San Siro stadium in Milan, while the closing ceremony will take place on February 22 at the Arena di Verona.
The last time Italy hosted the Winter Olympics was in Turin in 2006.
Watch Italy's promotional video below for the Olympics bid (select full screen mode):
