Milan and Cortina Prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Cortina d’Ampezzo buzzes with excitement, while Milan seems less engaged. The differences between the two cities are striking. Cortina, nestled in the stunning Dolomites, is blanketed in snow. Flags celebrating the Olympics hang proudly from local buildings, creating a festive atmosphere. The Olympic cauldron glows near the town’s main church, signaling the impending celebrations.
In contrast, Milan, Italy’s fashion and financial hub, is dampened by rainy weather. Here, the city is busy with its own activities, overshadowing Olympic buzz. It’s easy to miss signs of the Games in the bustling streets. “It’s not Milan’s fault,” says Sam Durante, who is in town from Calgary to support his daughter, an ice hockey goalkeeper. “Spreading the events across regions makes sense but creates a disjointed feel.” He compares it to the 1988 Calgary Games, where the Olympic energy was electrifying due to the proximity of venues.
Milan’s Olympic venues are scattered outside the city, leading to concerns about atmosphere. “It feels a bit sparse,” says Faizan Mohammad, a local. Many residents share his sentiment, but there’s hope that excitement will build once the events begin.
Meanwhile, Cortina is alive with preparations. Locals are busy, and the air is filled with anticipation. American luger Leon Felderer feels right at home in the mountains, enjoying the friendly vibes that the small town offers. “Cortina just has a magical feel,” he says.
Yet, there are some worries about the venue construction not being finished in time. Francesca Alberte, who works at a local boutique, expresses both excitement and trepidation. “We are a little afraid for many things that are not ready,” she shares, “but overall, there’s a strong sense of joy among the people.”
Cortina’s charm lies in its picturesque views, upscale shops, and high-end ski gear. Tourists flock to buy Olympic souvenirs, while shops display luxurious ski outfits costing over 700 euros. As one tourist from Slovakia mentions, “Cortina is posh and there’s a lot of construction,” highlighting the town’s evolving infrastructure.
James Reed, a former bobsledder turned photographer, describes Cortina as a “ritzy mountain town,” comparing it to Vail in Colorado due to its beautiful scenery and high-quality amenities.
Local resident Mariella Mariani recognizes that both cities have different vibes but agree that the Olympics will be a boon for Italy. “It’s a significant event for us,” she says, emphasizing the shared pride in hosting the world.
As the countdown to the Olympics continues, the contrast between Milan and Cortina reminds us of the diverse experiences this event can create.
For more on the Olympics, visit AP News.
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Francesca Alberte,Olympics,Leon Felderer,Matthew Greiner,environment,Climate,Jackie Wiles,Sam Durante,Peter Kristen,Mariella Mariani
