Italy's Winter Olympics promised sustainability. But in Cortina, environmentalists warn the Games could scar these mountains for decades.

For the first time in history, the Olympic Winter Games will be “diffuse”: two emblematic cities—Milan and Cortina—and an entire system of territories—Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige—united by a sustainable and inclusive vision.

"Amid pressing international conflicts, the Olympics is one of the most significant geopolitical events of the year."

MILAN (AP) — All the worries, strife and scrutiny that lingered around the construction of the main hockey arena for the Milan Cortina Olympics dissipated as the first game there into a celebration for the host country.

Ms. Meloni’s conservative government has focused on law and order since taking office in October 2022. A security decree passed in June 2025 created more than a dozen new crimes, including protest activity in prisons and migrant centers, and made some kinds of demonstrations punishable with up to two years in prison.

The Games in northern Italy, which start on Friday, will be spread across 8,500 square miles. Long distances, narrow roads, complex connections and snowfall will make it a logistical nightmare.