Cortina’s 2026 Olympics face criticism over construction costs, environmental impact, and lack of local benefit despite sustainability claims.
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Preparations for the Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, are facing issues despite claims of being the “first sustainable Olympics.” The town, once poor, is now a glossy winter tourism hub, but development brings concerns over construction, landslides, and lack of transparency. While organizers promote the games as a new beginning for Cortina, critics point to past failures like expensive, underutilized ice rinks (“white elephants”). Although the International Olympic Committee introduced Agenda 2020 to promote sustainability by using existing infrastructure, the Italian bid is criticized for building new facilities, such as an entirely new bobsled track, despite alternatives. Construction costs have risen significantly, and there are reports of potential mafia involvement in the building process. Local residents express dissatisfaction, citing increased living costs, traffic congestion, and a lack of benefit to the community beyond tourism profits. Experts warn that relying on artificial snow for ski resorts is an unsustainable practice facing future climate change challenges.
