Italy wins bid to host 2026 Winter Olympics

Italy will host the 2026 Winter Olympics in 2026.

The International Olympic Committee voted by 47 votes to 34, in favour of Italy’s bid to stage the games rather than Stockholm in Sweden.

Ice hockey and skating will be held in Milan and most of the skiing events will take place in the resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Other snow sports will be held in other venues in the Italian Alps, including Livigno.

Cortina last hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956, while Turin staged the 2006 edition of the games.

Before Monday’s announcement, Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte stressed his country’s desire to host the 2026 games.

Mr Conte said: ‘If I am here today in front of you, it is thanks to the enthusiasm of all Italy.

‘This is the dream of an entire country, and not only the government but also the regions.’

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 Italian fans, together with experienced venue operators, will create the perfect atmosphere for the best athletes in the world.

‘The Olympic Winter Games Milan-Cortina 2026 will feature iconic venues and beautiful settings, combining the attractions of a modern European metropolis with a classic Alpine environment.’