Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 | 06 Feb 2026

Why in News? 

The 25th edition of the Winter Olympic Games will officially begin from 6 February. Milano Cortina 2026 will mark the first time that two cities will jointly host the Winter Olympics, and it is the fourth time Italy will stage the Winter Games.

Key Points:

• Opening Ceremony: Held on 6 February 2026 at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan. 
• Closing Ceremony: Scheduled for 22 February 2026 at the ancient Verona Arena. 
• Mascots: Tina and Milo, two stoats whose names are inspired by the host cities (Tina for Cortina and Milo for Milano). 
• Theme: Titled "Armonia" (Harmony), the show is produced by Balich Wonder Studio and features performances by Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, and Laura Pausini. 
• India’s Participation:India is represented by a small but significant contingent at the 2026 Games, continuing its presence in global winter sports.  
• Athletes:Arif Mohammad Khan, the veteran alpine skier, who previously represented India at the Beijing 2022 Winter Games, has qualified in the Alpine Skiing discipline. 
  • Stanzin Lundup: Competing in Cross-Country Skiing. His participation was confirmed after a selection process that involved a Delhi High Court decision regarding the national quota. 
• India participated in the Winter Olympics:While the Winter Olympic Games began in 1924, India made its debut in 1964. 
  •  Including the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics, India has participated in 12 Winter Olympic editions, with 17 different athletes representing the country over the years.