Winter Olympics 2026: Which sports are featured in Milan’s program

New sports and medal records

The Games feature 116 finals across 16 sports. Ski mountaineering debuts—a thrilling mix of skiing and climbing. Fans will also see women’s doubles in luge and paired moguls in freestyle skiing for the first time. Gender balance is a priority, with women making up a record 47% of participants, compared to only figure skating for women in 1924.

Main venues

• Milan: Ice hockey, figure skating, and short track

• Cortina d’Ampezzo: Women’s alpine skiing, curling, bobsleigh, and luge

• Antholz (Anterselva): Biathlon

• Val di Fiemme: Cross-country skiing, ski jumping

Team Ukraine: lineup and prospects

Ukraine sends 46 athletes competing in 11 disciplines. Biathlon and luge have the largest representation (10 each). Key leaders include World Champion Dmytro Pidruchnyi (biathlon), Vladyslav Heraskevych (skeleton), and freestyle star Dmytro Kotovskyi. Flag bearers: Yelyzaveta Sydorko (short track) and Vladyslav Heraskevych.

Professionals return & security measures

NHL players are back for the first time in years, ensuring a top-level hockey tournament. About 6,000 security personnel will work at the Games. ICE agents will advise on US VIP protection.

Status of Russian and Belarusian athletes

As in Paris 2024, Russian and Belarusian competitors are limited (13 and 7 athletes) and compete as neutral athletes without national symbols or team events.

Fun facts

• Ceremonies: Opening at San Siro football stadium; closing at Verona’s ancient Arena

• Eco-medals: Made from recycled metals using green energy

• Mascots: Ermines Tina and Milo

• Ticket prices: From €30 to €3,500 for premium packages