PARIS: Milano 2026 Explores Alternative Plans for Sliding Centre,Organisers of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics stated on Tuesday that they are continuing to evaluate alternative plans for a sliding centre, despite the Italian government’s commitment to construct a new one for the Games.
In February, the Italian government finalized an agreement with a construction firm to build a new sliding track in Cortina for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, opting against using an existing track in a neighboring country despite opposition from the IOC.
The IOC had consistently expressed concerns about constructing a new sliding centre, urging organisers to utilize existing venues in nearby countries to reduce costs and streamline preparation times.
The Italian government, however, said it wanted to host all competitions within its borders.
“Totally aware of the very challenging timeline and of the serious doubts many of you in this session have, I am sure you understand it is not possible for an organising committee to reject a government decision,” Milano-Cortina CEO Andrea Varnier told the IOC session.
The IOC is eager to avoid construction of venues that will get little or no use after the Olympics. Neighbouring France, Switzerland and Austria have sliding centres, as does Germany.
Kristin Kloster, who heads the IOC’s coordination commission of those Games said progress on the sliding project was proceeding according to plan despite tight deadlines.
“The IOC will remain watchful as timelines are tight.”
