The medals for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics have been officially unveiled, symbolizing the unique collaboration between the two host cities. This marks the first time the Winter Games will carry the names of two locations, with organizers emphasizing the theme of “two halves coming together.”
A ceremony held alongside the Grand Canal in Venice on Tuesday showcased the design of the medals. Described as “a graphic abstraction capturing the union of two halves in perpetual motion,” the medals feature distinct artistic elements that represent the collaboration between Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. The design incorporates the Olympic rings on one side, while the reverse displays the games’ logos along with engravings for specific events.
The Olympics are scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026, followed by the Paralympics from March 6 to 15, 2026. A total of 1,146 medals will be awarded across 195 events during the games, which will span a diverse region of northern Italy. Ice sports will be hosted in Milan, while various mountain clusters will feature snow sports. Notably, Cortina d’Ampezzo, the capital of the Veneto region, will host women’s Alpine skiing, sliding, and curling events.
The medals are being produced by Italy’s state mint, Zecca dello Stato. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan-Cortina organizing committee, expressed confidence in the quality of the medals, stating, “I can assure you they won’t deteriorate. They could even be recycled, although I hope nobody will do that.”
This commitment to quality comes in response to concerns raised after some medals from last year’s Paris Olympics quickly lost their luster. The Milan-Cortina organizing team aims to ensure that these medals not only serve as symbols of achievement but also stand the test of time.
As anticipation builds for the Winter Games, the unveiled medals reflect a blend of tradition and modernity, echoing the collaborative spirit of the event. With the world watching, the Milan-Cortina Olympics promise to be a celebration of sport, unity, and cultural exchange.