Quiz: Can you name every Winter Olympics host city?

The International Olympic Committee and local organizers are preparing for the 25th Winter Olympic Games, scheduled to take place across the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo in February 2026, marking a historic expansion of the winter sports program. This upcoming edition of the games is set to feature a record-breaking 116 medal events, reflecting the growing diversity and technical evolution of winter athletics. Italy’s successful bid aims to showcase the Alpine region's heritage while utilizing existing world-class infrastructure to host thousands of international athletes and millions of spectators. This landmark event represents the first time the Winter Olympics will be officially hosted by two separate flagship cities, a logistical undertaking that spans the urban landscape of Milan and the scenic peaks of the Dolomites in Cortina. By introducing new disciplines and events, the organizers hope to attract a younger audience and increase the global visibility of sports like ski mountaineering, which will make its Olympic debut. The 116 events represent a significant increase from previous games, ensuring that 2026 will be the most comprehensive display of winter sports talent in history. The selection of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo also highlights a shift toward more sustainable hosting models, as the 2026 Games will rely heavily on legendary venues that have previously hosted world championships. Cortina, in particular, carries a deep Olympic legacy, having previously hosted the Winter Games in 1956. This return to the Italian Alps is expected to provide a substantial economic boost to the Lombardy and Veneto regions, reinforcing Italy's status as a premier destination for international sporting competition and winter tourism.