Welcome to Cortina’s Olympic Village

Casey Halston

Published: February 5, 2026 12:30 PM ET

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, is gearing up to host the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The Olympic Village is bustling with energy as the opening ceremony approaches. Surrounded by the stunning Dolomites, the village provides a temporary home for athletes ahead of the competitions.

Overview of Cortina’s Olympic Village

The village will accommodate over 1,000 athletes, including participants in disciplines such as alpine skiing, luge, bobsleigh, and curling. Located at an altitude of 1,300 meters, the Olympic Village is designed for functionality and comfort.

Investment and Infrastructure

Constructed at a cost of 38 million euros, this Olympic Village stands where Cortina’s former airport once was. It features nearly 400 mobile homes, providing cozy accommodations for athletes and their teams.

Athlete Experiences and Amenities

Bianca Ribi, a Canadian athlete, praised the comfortable beds and warm showers.
Lucas Defayet, representing France, expressed satisfaction with his 18-square-meter mobile home.
The village includes communal spaces such as cafes, dining areas, and training facilities.

Both athletes noted the friendly atmosphere. They appreciate the chance to socialize with fellow competitors from various countries, including the United States, Germany, and Slovenia.

Challenges of the Venue

While the village is well-equipped, some athletes expressed concerns about the long distances they must walk within the facility. The Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych noted that navigating the premises could be tiring.

Logistical Considerations

Reaching the main center of Cortina presents additional challenges. Bianca Ribi mentioned the chaos of coordinating shuttle schedules and navigating security checks. These logistical hurdles add to the stress as athletes prepare for the events ahead.

Upcoming Event Timeline

As the opening ceremony draws near, excitement builds among the athletes. Following the conclusion of the Winter Olympics, the village will welcome athletes for the Paralympic Games in March. The infrastructure is expected to be dismantled, leaving no trace behind, in line with the promises from the organizing committee.

The commitment to sustainability and excellence in athlete experience defines the Olympic Village in Cortina as preparations continue for this prestigious winter event.