The organisers of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are in a frantic race against time to complete two key venues, with only 16 days remaining until their scheduled delivery. The Cortina d'Ampezzo sliding centre and the ice hockey stadium are still undergoing significant construction work, raising concerns about readiness for the global sporting event.
Construction Challenges and Timelines
The Cortina d'Ampezzo sliding centre, a brand-new facility rather than a repurposed existing venue, has faced intense pressure due to a particularly tight construction schedule. This has necessitated round-the-clock efforts to meet the impending deadline.
Confidence Amidst the Rush
Despite the visible construction activity and remaining finishing touches, International Olympic Committee Executive Director Christophe Dubi has expressed strong confidence that both venues will be ready on time. His optimism is bolstered by the intensive work currently underway, involving approximately 1,600 workers on site daily.
Event Details and Historical Context
The Winter Games are scheduled to commence on 6 February 2026, with the opening ceremony taking place at Milan's iconic San Siro stadium. The event will conclude on 22 February, marking Italy's first time hosting the Olympics since the 2006 Turin Games.
In a nod to Italian heritage and culture, the two Olympic cauldrons for the event will be designed to honour the legendary Renaissance polymath, Leonardo Da Vinci, adding a unique artistic and historical dimension to the proceedings.
The Final Push
With the clock ticking down, all efforts are focused on ensuring the venues are not only completed but also fully operational and safe for athletes and spectators alike. The coming weeks will be critical as organisers work to transform construction sites into world-class sporting arenas.
