Italy Celebrates Curling Champion as Hometown Hero at Olympics

In Italy, curling champion Stefania Constantini continues to enjoy the warm embrace of her hometown, Cortina d’Ampezzo. As she defends her Olympic gold medal, her community proudly celebrates her achievements. Cortina is the backdrop of her remarkable journey from childhood to Olympic glory.

Hometown Hero: Stefania Constantini

Stefania Constantini, 26, is not just an athlete but a beloved figure in her hometown. Known affectionately as “Stefi,” she has a smile that lights up her community. Last summer, she returned to the local café and reunited with her childhood neighbors, illustrating the strong ties she maintains with her roots.

Career Highlights

• Won the gold medal at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
• Claimed silver and bronze medals at the European Curling Championships.
• Currently captains the Italian women’s curling team.

Her journey began at the Cortina elementary school, where her mother teaches. Young Stefania would practice curling by sliding imaginary stones down the hallways of her childhood home. Now, she trains at the local arena, which hosts the curling championship during the 2026 Winter Games.

Community Support and Challenges

The close-knit community of Cortina d’Ampezzo has embraced Constantini as their top athlete. Mayor Gianluca Lorenzi, a former national team player himself, affirms her local hero status. However, not everything has been smooth sailing. A recent controversy arose before the Olympics when her coach replaced a teammate with his daughter, leading to public outcry and a petition signed by her mother.

Despite the challenges, Constantini remains focused on her sport. She aims to raise awareness about curling in Italy, a country where the sport is not widely popular. She embraces her role as a public figure, notably reading the Olympic oath at the opening ceremony of the Games.

A Personal Touch

Beyond curling, Stefania enjoys a simple life with her boyfriend, Domenico Dalla Santa. Their relationship, which began when she was just 15, provides her with a solid support system. He praises her decision-making skills in curling, indicating that they share responsibilities equally.

The pride of her family shines through as well. Stefania’s grandparents are deeply involved in her life, providing encouragement and support during her Olympic preparation. Her grandmother even knits clothes for her, ensuring she stays warm during competitions.

Fostering the Future of Curling

During her journey, Constantini hopes to inspire the next generation of curlers in Italy. She champions the sport and wishes for more fans to engage with curling. Recently, young curlers from Bormio showed up to support her, indicating her growing influence in the sport.

As the Olympics progress, the spirit of Cortina d’Ampezzo is palpable. Stefania Constantini is more than just a contender; she is a symbol of hope, determination, and community pride for a sport that continues to grow in Italy.