Milano Cortina 2026 competition begins as Olympic excitement builds across Italy
Competition is officially underway at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, as athletes take to the ice and snow in the days leading up to the Opening Ceremony on 6 February. With early sessions already delivering drama and atmosphere, fans across Italy are getting their first taste of live Olympic action.
Key facts
- First competition: Mixed doubles curling opened the sporting programme on 4 February in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- Ice hockey and snowboard: Women’s ice hockey begins in Milan and snowboard qualifications get under way in Livigno, alongside further curling sessions.
- What’s next: The first Olympic medals of Milano Cortina 2026 will be awarded on 7 February.
Curling opens the Games in Cortina
Mixed doubles curling launched the Milano Cortina 2026 sporting calendar on 4 February, immediately setting a competitive tone at the legacy stadium from the 1956 Games. Great Britain edged Norway 8-6, while Canada, Switzerland and Sweden also recorded opening victories. Round-robin play continues today, with a packed schedule from morning until the evening.
Beyond the early results, the opening day also marked the first moments of competition at the Olympic Winter Games, as athletes settled into life at Milano Cortina 2026. Reflecting on that experience, Great Britain’s Bruce Mouat said: “I'm enjoying it. It's pretty cool that we're in an Olympic Games, a Winter Olympic Games, and it's snowing outside.” He added: “It’s very special.”
Women’s ice hockey begins in Milan
Women’s ice hockey started today in Milan, with Sweden facing Germany in the opening match at Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena, followed by host nation Italy taking on France at a packed, brand new Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Ten teams are taking part in the competition, which runs through to the medal games on 19 February, setting the stage for high-intensity match-ups between the world’s leading teams.
For the players, the opening face-off marks the beginning of a fiercely competitive Olympic journey. Finland’s Jenni Hiirikoski highlighted the challenge and excitement of the tournament ahead: “It’s an Olympic Games. You get to play against the best in the world and share the ice with them. It will be a fun battle.”
That sense of occasion is amplified on the Olympic stage, where experience and legacy meet expectation. Competing at her fifth Olympic Winter Games, USA captain Hilary Knight underlined what representing her country continues to mean: “It is an honour every time you represent your country on a world stage, but to be part of this Olympic dream for so long has been a magical experience."
Livigno comes alive as snowboard action starts
From 5 to 21 February, Livigno will host snowboarding and freestyle skiing, with competition taking place at Livigno Snow Park and Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park.
Snowboard qualifications began today, bringing Olympic action to one of the Games’ most vibrant mountain venues. Beyond the competition, Livigno is emerging as a leading social and cultural hub of Milano Cortina 2026. The compact Alpine town brings venues, accommodation, bars and nightlife together in a walkable setting, making it ideal for day visitors and short stays. Livigno offers a range of accommodation options, including recently upgraded hotels and apartments, with many options available via Worldwide Olympic Partner Airbnb.
Looking ahead
With competition now under way, attention turns to the Opening Ceremony on 6 February, followed by the first medals on 7 February.
Find the full Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games schedule here.
While tickets are selling fast, fans still have time to plan unforgettable activities across the host regions. Tickets, hospitality and accommodation remain available, offering spectators the chance to enjoy the excitement, atmosphere and emotion of Milano Cortina 2026 up close.
In recognition of Visa's long-standing partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Visa is the preferred and official way to pay at Milano Cortina 2026.