With the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games just over a year away, CEO Andrea Varnier offered a behind-the-scenes look at the final push in a conversation with China Media Group (CMG) on Thursday.
“Venues are almost ready,” says Varnier, highlighting that test events so far have been very successful across competition sites from alpine slopes to ice rinks. While last-minute tweaks remain on several fronts, overall progress is on track for February 6 to 22, 2026.
Drawing on his experience as a director of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Varnier points to one major shift since then: technology. He explains that significant resources have been invested into cybersecurity, underlining that digital resilience is now as crucial as snow quality. From smart ticketing to secure broadcast networks, tech upgrades are keeping athletes and fans connected safely.
In a bid to set a new sustainability benchmark, many existing venues will be reused—an approach Varnier hopes will inspire future host cities to balance legacy and innovation. This model cuts costs, curbs construction waste, and preserves the unique charm of local venues.
Fans can also expect a reimagined opening ceremony. Varnier teases a multisite celebration that links athletes and audiences across the region, moving beyond a single stadium showcase.
As the countdown continues, Milano Cortina 2026 is racing toward the finish line with tech-driven solutions, sustainability at its core, and a fan-first mindset ready to redefine what a modern Winter Games can be.
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Milano Cortina 2026 CEO Andrea Varnier: Venues almost ready for Games
cgtn.com
