The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics have come and gone, leaving us with a mix of emotions and memories that will last a lifetime. As with any major event, there were highs and lows, moments of sheer brilliance and moments of disappointment. But at its core, this event was a celebration of humanity, a showcase of the best that we as a species can achieve when we come together.
From the very beginning, the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics were plagued with challenges and controversies. The bidding process itself was marred by accusations of corruption, and the original host city, Turin, was forced to withdraw due to lack of government support. As a result, Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo stepped in as co-hosts, with only a few years to prepare for the biggest winter sports event in the world.
Despite these setbacks, the organizing committee, led by President Giovanni Malagò, managed to pull off a remarkable show. The opening ceremony was a spectacle of lights, music, and dance, showcasing the rich history and culture of Italy. It was a perfect start to what would be a rollercoaster of emotions over the next two weeks.
The athletes were the true stars of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. From the stunning comeback of figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu to the record-breaking performance of speed skater Martina Sablikova, we witnessed some of the most incredible feats of athleticism and determination. These Olympic Games also saw the emergence of new talents, like American snowboarder Chloe Kim and Austrian alpine skier Marco Schwarz, who captivated us with their skill and passion.
But beyond the sports, what truly made this event stand out was its celebration of humanity. The theme of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics was “Let’s express ourselves,” and that’s exactly what the athletes did. They showed us that no matter where we come from, what language we speak, or what beliefs we hold, we can all come together and compete in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
One of the most memorable moments of the Games was the closing ceremony, which featured a beautiful dance performance by a group of differently-abled dancers. It was a testament to the inclusive nature of these Olympics, reminding us that everyone has the right to dream and chase their goals, regardless of any physical or societal barriers.
But not all was perfect at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The event was criticized for its excessive focus on dance, with some even calling it “dance-obsessed.” While it’s true that dance was a prominent element throughout the Games, we must remember that dance is an essential part of Italian culture. It was a way for the host country to showcase its identity and traditions, and it added a touch of elegance and grace to the overall event.
And let’s not forget about the long list of technical and logistical issues that plagued the Games. From transportation delays to empty seats in the stadiums, there were certainly moments that tested the patience of the spectators and athletes alike. But while these issues are undeniable, they should not overshadow the incredible achievements and unbreakable spirit of the athletes.
In the end, the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics was a bittersweet experience. We saw moments of pure joy and moments of heartbreak, but through it all, we witnessed the resilience and strength of the human spirit. These Games reminded us that no matter what challenges we face, we have the power to overcome them and achieve greatness.
So yes, the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics may have been painfully long and inevitably uneven, but it was also a celebration of humanity at its best. It brought together people from all walks of life, united by their love for sports and their determination to reach the pinnacle of success. And at a time when the world is facing so many challenges, that is something truly worth celebrating.
