Sun Feb 22 18:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Spread-Out Milan Cortina Olympics Face Logistical Hurdles, Test New Hosting Model

The Story:

The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are pioneering a “spread-out Games” model, distributing events across more than 13,000 square miles of Northern Italy. This approach, dubbed “Giochi diffusi,” aims for sustainability by utilizing existing infrastructure and reducing strain on host cities. However, it presents challenges in accessibility and creates a fragmented Olympic experience for athletes, fans, and journalists. The dispersed venues impact team logistics, athlete interaction, and the overall Olympic atmosphere, as highlighted by various stakeholders, including IOC officials and talent agents.

Key Points:

  • The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are using a spread-out hosting model across Northern Italy.
  • Milan lacks the traditional “Olympic energy” compared to smaller venues like Livigno.
  • The spread-out model aims for sustainability and reduces the financial burden on a single city.
  • Logistical challenges include limited transport infrastructure and difficulties for athletes to interact with peers from other sports.
  • Team USA’s chief medical officer notes increased complexity in staffing and supply planning due to the dispersed venues.
  • The 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics are planned as a “compact Games,” contrasting with Milan Cortina.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Milan Cortina Olympics serve as a major test case for the feasibility and impact of spread-out hosting models for global sporting events.
  • While offering potential benefits in sustainability and cost-sharing, the model introduces significant logistical and experiential challenges.
  • The success of future spread-out Games hinges on addressing the issues of transportation, athlete interaction, and maintaining a cohesive Olympic atmosphere.
  • There are conflicting perspectives between the IOC and the athletes about the success of this model, hinting that it may be more successful for cost, but less enjoyable for athletes.

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