Milano Cortina 2026: A Historic Closing Ceremony and a Glimpse into the Future

The 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo concluded on February 22nd with a closing ceremony celebrated as “truly, truly magical” by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. Coventry praised the host nation, stating they had “organized a novel kind of Winter Games and set a new standard for the future.”

A Ceremony Rooted in Italian Culture

The closing ceremony took place in the historic Arena di Verona, an almost 2,000-year-old amphitheater, marking the first time a Winter Olympics closing ceremony was held at a venue not directly used for competition. The event began with a tribute to Italian opera, featuring characters from operas such as “Aida” and “Rigoletto” appearing live on stage, broadcast to numerous countries.

Flag Bearers and Final Medals

During the parade of nations, Austria was represented by skeleton Olympic champion Janine Flock and snowboard cross double Olympic champion Alessandro Hämmerle, who proudly carried the nation’s flag. Hämmerle described the experience as incredibly proud, noting it was his first Olympic ceremony and a huge honor. Flock echoed this sentiment, calling it a “great honor” and a wonderful end to her Olympic journey.

The final gold medals of the Games were awarded to Sweden’s Ebba Andersson and Norway’s Johannes Hösflot Kläbo, both victorious in the 50km cross-country skiing events. Kläbo finished the Games as the most successful athlete, securing six Olympic victories.

Looking Ahead: Paralympics and Future Games

The Olympic spirit will continue in northern Italy, as the 14th Paralympic Winter Games are set to initiate on March 6th and conclude on March 15th, featuring approximately 660 athletes competing in 79 events across six sports.

The next Winter Olympics will be held in the French Alps in four years. Prior to that, the Summer Games will take place in Los Angeles in 2028.

Kirsty Coventry’s Historic Presidency

These Games marked a significant milestone as Kirsty Coventry, the first female president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), officially declared the Games open on February 6th. Coventry, originally from Zimbabwe, delivered a speech emphasizing unity and the power of sport to inspire. She also noted the significance of breaking barriers as the first female and first African to hold the position of IOC President.

Coventry pledged that the Olympics would remain a place where athletes can inspire the world through sport, ensuring a “free, safe and proud” environment.