New Olympic Architecture: From the Alps to the Metropolis
The organizers abandoned the idea of a single Olympic park, instead creating an innovative network of six clusters across northern Italy:
- Milan: The ice capital (figure skating, ice hockey, short-track speed skating, speed skating). The main events will take place at modernized arenas such as the Mediolanum Forum.
- Cortina d'Ampezzo: The jewel of the Dolomite Alps, a UNESCO site. Here will be held competitions in alpine skiing, bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton.
- Val di Fiemme, Val di Sole, Anterselva, Bormio: These world-famous resorts will host cross-country skiing, biathlon, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding.
This approach minimizes the need for new construction: more than 80% of the venues are existing or temporary, setting a new benchmark for Olympic sustainability.
“Harmony” in Action: Opening Ceremony and Sports Program
The opening ceremony on February 6 will be an unprecedented show under the slogan “Armonia” (Harmony). The main event will unfold at the legendary Giuseppe Meazza Stadium (San Siro) in Milan, with parallel activities on the slopes of Cortina, connected by technological magic symbolizing the unity of city and mountains.
The sports program features a record 116 medal events.
Key innovations include:
- Debut of ski mountaineering (skimo): Sprint and mixed relay — a perfect addition for mountainous Italy.
- Gender equality: New mixed disciplines have been introduced, women's competitions on the large hill in ski jumping, and separate two-man luge races for men and women.
- Return of NHL stars: After missing two Olympics, the world's top hockey players will once again compete for gold, making the tournament incredibly spectacular.
How to Watch the Games in Lithuania: Full Immersion Without Borders
For Lithuanian fans, the 2026 Olympics will be highly accessible thanks to free broadcasts from the national broadcaster LRT.
- Television: Major events, ceremonies, and key finals involving Lithuanian athletes — on LRT TELEVIZIJA and LRT SPORT channels.
- Online platforms: Full free access to all competitions live and on-demand via the website lrt.lt (section “Tiesiogiai”), the LRT mobile app, and the Mediateka archive. You'll also find exclusive interviews, reviews, and themed programs here.
- For maximalists: The Max platform (formerly HBO Max), holding Warner Bros. Discovery rights, will show absolutely every start without exception. Eurosport 1/2 will also offer extensive coverage, especially in biathlon, cross-country skiing, and figure skating.
Special focus on Lithuanian athletes. In 2026, Lithuania is expected to send its largest-ever delegation to the Winter Olympics. In the spotlight — biathletes (including our stars), cross-country skiers, and speed skaters. Follow their competition schedules on LRT resources!
Why Milan–Cortina 2026 Is More Than Just Sport?
- Olympics without white elephants: The principle of sustainability has been put into practice. After the Games, venues will remain in use by local communities and athletes.
- Perfect timing for Europe: All events take place in the Central European Time zone (CET), ensuring convenient live viewing for Lithuanians and all of Europe.
- Festival of Italian “Dolce Vita”: A unique chance to see Italy in all its glory — from fashion shows and aperitifs in Milan to cozy mountain restaurants and snow-capped Dolomite peaks in Cortina. The Olympics will become a celebration of sport, gastronomy, design, and natural splendor.
The Olympic flame is already lit! The first official training sessions and competitions (e.g., curling) began on February 4. The main start is scheduled for February 6 at 20:00 Lithuanian time with a grand opening ceremony. Get ready for two weeks of incredible emotions, historic victories, and Italian charm!
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