
Wed Feb 04 06:00:00 UTC 2026: Headline: Estonia to Participate in Record-Breaking 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Extensive Broadcast Coverage Planned
The Story:
Estonia is set to send its largest-ever delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled to be held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy from February 6-22. The Estonian national broadcaster (ERR) will provide extensive live coverage of the Games, with the Russian-language channel ETV+ broadcasting key events including the opening and closing ceremonies, freestyle skiing, figure skating, and ice hockey. The Games mark a historical first as two cities will officially co-host the event.
Key Points:
- The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6-22.
- Estonia will send a record 31 athletes across 11 sports, along with 47 support staff.
- ERR will broadcast 150 hours of live coverage across its channels, with ETV+ providing Russian-language commentary for selected events.
- The opening ceremony is planned to be particularly unique, with two Olympic cauldrons lit in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- ETV+’s broadcast schedule includes opening and closing ceremonies, freestyle skiing, figure skating, and ice hockey, with commentators like Alexei Margiev and Igor Savelyev.
Key Takeaways:
- Estonia’s participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics signifies the nation’s continued commitment to winter sports.
- Extensive broadcast coverage on ERR, including Russian-language options on ETV+, aims to cater to diverse audiences within Estonia.
- The unique dual-city hosting arrangement in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo marks a new era for the Winter Olympics.
- The increased size of the Estonian delegation may reflect improved funding and training opportunities for athletes.