Fashion capital Milan will host the Winter Olympics for the first time in 2026 - with a gold medal the perfect accessory.
Italy has twice hosted Winter Olympics in the past, Cortina d'Ampezzo in 1956 and Turin in 2006, and Milan-Cortina saw off the challenge of Sweden’s Stockholm-Åre to win the vote at the IOC’s 134th session in Lausanne.
The region was recognised for its world-class venues, ranging from the ice arenas of Milan to the well-established and iconic World Cup and World Championship destinations of Cortina, Bormio, Antholz and Val di Fiemme. Organisers promised over 90 percent of events will be staged in existing or temporary venues.
“We can look forward to outstanding and sustainable Olympic Winter Games in a traditional winter sports country,” said Bach.
“The passion and knowledge of Italian fans, together with experienced venue operators, will create the perfect atmosphere for the best athletes in the world.
“The Olympic Winter Games Milan-Cortina 2026 will feature iconic venues and beautiful settings, combining the attractions of a modern European metropolis with a classic Alpine environment.”
Team GB didn’t win any medals at the 1956 Winter Games in Italy, with figure skater Yvonne Sugden finishing just outside the medals.
But Shelley Rudman won a famous skeleton silver when the event returned to Italy 50 years later.
“Congratulations to the Milan Cortina Bid Committee and our colleagues at the Italian Olympic Committee,” said British Olympic Association chief executive Sir Hugh Robertson.
“The British Olympic Association has fond memories of the Torino 2006 Games and we look forward to what we are sure will be another great Olympic Winter Games in Italy in seven years’ time.”
The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place from 6 to 22 February.