Chris Jones provides insights from Italy in anticipation of the Milano Cortina Olympics.
The vibrant atmosphere at San Siro persisted well into Sunday night, long after Inter Milan’s victory over Bologna, with enthusiastic fans expressing their joy. As the same stadium gears up to host the Opening Ceremony on Feb. 6, Olympic organizers are hopeful for a similar level of excitement.
There is a lingering concern about whether this soccer-focused city, home to Inter and AC Milan, will embrace sports like hockey and figure skating. With Milano Cortina 2026 just a month away, the event appears to be shaping up as a subdued Olympics. Spread across four different clusters in northern Italy, the slow pace of ticket sales among locals adds to the subdued feel.
In Milan, the Olympics seem almost invisible, except for the ongoing construction at the Milano Santagiulia hockey arena. A temporary store at Piazza del Duomo offers a glimpse of what’s to come, but the towering Christmas tree in the square seemed to capture more attention from weekend visitors.
The city’s other venues are scattered and temporary. Assago, to the south, will host figure skating and long track speed skating, while Fiera Milano in Rho, far to the west, will accommodate a second hockey rink and short track speed skating.
Apart from the Milano Santagiulia arena, the athletes’ village in Milan stands as the only purpose-built facility in the city. The coexistence of various sports disciplines under one roof during breakfast will not happen at these Olympics.
In smaller co-host cities like Cortina and Livigno, the charm of the Olympics is expected to be more palpable, given their scenic backdrops and intimate settings. However, in Milan, where snow is absent and numerous distractions abound, the focus remains on the intense Serie A title race between Inter and AC Milan.
Perhaps Milano Cortina represents a shift towards modern, sustainable mega-events, prioritizing cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility. By leveraging existing infrastructure and planning for post-Olympic usage, the event aims for long-term benefits and minimal wastage.
Despite challenges, including the ongoing construction issues, the cautious approach of Milano Cortina signals a shift towards sustainable event hosting. The transformation of venues for future use, such as repurposing the Olympic village into student housing post-Games, highlights a commitment to long-term planning.
The anticipation and spirit of the upcoming Olympics are evident not just in the sports arenas but also on the streets of Milan, where murals of athletes inspire a sense of perseverance and determination. As Milan prepares to welcome the world, the message to “PROVE THEM WRONG” resonates not only with the athletes but with the entire city.