Italian Stoats Tina and Milo: Which Olympic Mascots Could They Defeat?

The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy unveil a unique pair of mascots, siblings Tina and Milo, both stoats. Named after their respective Italian cities—Tina for Cortina and Milo for Milano—they will represent the Games with their contrasting summer and winter appearances. Tina is a bright white, resembling the stoat’s winter coat, while Milo has the brown coloring typical of summer. Notably, Milo, the mascot for the Paralympic Games, has an inspiring backstory: he was born with a missing leg and compensates with his tail.

Understanding Stoats: The Adorable yet Lethal Creatures

While remarkably cute, stoats are also skilled hunters. Their slim bodies permit them to hunt smaller mammals like rodents, rabbits, as well as birds and reptiles. Due to their efficiency in killing rabbits, they were introduced to New Zealand in the late 1800s to manage invasive rabbit populations. Unfortunately, this led to significant ecological repercussions, threatening various native species.

Stoats can eliminate prey many times their size, making them formidable predators in Italy’s Alps, where they thrive without similar ecological challenges. Their rapid hunting capabilities raise an intriguing question: which previous Olympic mascots could be outmatched by Tina and Milo?

Potential Matches: Milo and Tina vs. Olympic Mascots

1. Phryges 2024 – Paris, France

• Phryges are anthropomorphic hats from French history.
• With no defensive traits, they are easy targets for the lethal stoats.

2. Bing Dwen Dwen & Shuey Rhon Rhon – Beijing 2022

• Bing Dwen Dwen, a giant panda, poses a challenge due to its size.
• However, its clumsy nature might allow Tina and Milo to exploit its weaknesses.
• In contrast, Shuey Rhon Rhon, a lantern, would be easily defeated.

3. Soohorang & Bandabi – Pyeongchang 2018

• Soohorang the white tiger and Bandabi the black bear are predators.
• They would overpower Tina and Milo effortlessly due to their size and strength.

4. Fuwas – Beijing 2008

• The Fuwas, representing the Olympic rings, embody a more intangible threat.
• Their origins give them a sinister edge that would likely outmatch the stoats.

5. Olly, Syd, and Millie – Sydney 2000

• These mascots, like Millie the echidna, have defenses that could protect them.
• However, Tina and Milo might find opportunities against the smaller creatures.

6. Izzy – Atlanta 1996

• Izzy, an undefined character, appears vulnerable.
• Tina and Milo would find success in attacking this odd mascot.

7. Hidy and Howdy – Calgary 1988

• As polar bears, they are formidable opponents.
• However, their Canadian demeanor may prevent them from engaging in a fight.

8. Smoky – Los Angeles 1932

• Smoky, the pioneering Olympic mascot, had a heartwarming presence.
• His friendships among athletes create a strong defense against any threats.

Conclusion

Tina and Milo are fascinating representatives of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Their pedigree as stoats brings both charm and a fierce nature. As we speculate about which Olympic mascots they could defeat, it’s clear that their capabilities, especially when it comes to hunting, make them unique contenders in the realm of Olympic mascot lore.