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IOC Appoints Athlete Ambassadors for Milano Cortina 2026

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 8:58 GMT by olympics.com
      Locales: ITALY, AUSTRIA

Milano Cortina, Italy - February 1st, 2026 - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a significant expansion of its commitment to sports integrity with the appointment of a dedicated group of athlete ambassadors for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Among the distinguished athletes selected to champion ethical conduct and clean sport is Austrian biathlete Dominik Windisch, a veteran of both the PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022 Winter Games. This initiative signifies a proactive shift by the IOC to not just react to integrity breaches, but to actively cultivate a culture of responsibility and ethical behavior within the Olympic community.

Windisch and his fellow ambassadors will operate as vital conduits for promoting the core values of the Olympic Movement. Their role extends beyond simply endorsing clean sport; they will actively engage in educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy efforts geared towards fellow athletes. This multi-faceted approach aims to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of integrity, respect, and fairness, not only during competition but throughout an athlete's career.

The appointment of these ambassadors comes at a crucial time for international sport. Recent years have seen a surge in high-profile doping scandals, allegations of corruption, and concerns surrounding athlete welfare. The IOC, while having implemented robust anti-doping programs and ethical guidelines, recognizes the need for a more holistic and athlete-led approach to safeguard the integrity of the Games. Simply punishing offenders isn't enough; preventative measures and a strong ethical foundation are paramount.

"We are delighted to welcome these athletes as Sports Integrity Ambassadors," stated IOC President Thomas Bach in a press release. "Their commitment to clean sport and their passion for the Olympic values will be invaluable in reinforcing the importance of integrity within the Olympic community. They will be vital in helping to inspire and educate future generations of athletes." This statement highlights the IOC's belief that athlete leadership is essential in driving positive change.

A Collaborative Approach to Integrity:

The ambassadors won't be working in isolation. They will be closely aligned with the IOC's Athlete Commission, which provides a crucial voice for athletes within the Olympic structure. Collaboration with National Olympic Committees (NOCs) will ensure that integrity messaging reaches athletes at the national level, tailoring programs to specific cultural contexts. Furthermore, partnerships with International Federations (IFs) - the governing bodies for individual sports - will ensure consistency in ethical standards across all disciplines. This collaborative network aims to create a unified front against unethical behavior.

Dominik Windisch: A Symbol of Integrity:

Dominik Windisch's selection as an ambassador is particularly noteworthy. Biathlon, a demanding sport combining cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, requires not only physical prowess but also mental fortitude and precision. Windisch has consistently demonstrated sportsmanship and a commitment to fair play throughout his career, making him a fitting representative of the IOC's values. His experience competing at two Winter Olympics provides him with a unique perspective on the pressures faced by athletes and the importance of ethical decision-making.

Expanding Beyond Anti-Doping:

While combating doping remains a crucial component of sports integrity, the IOC's focus is expanding to encompass a broader range of issues. These include match-fixing, corruption, harassment, and safeguarding against all forms of abuse. The ambassadors will be equipped to address these complex challenges and provide support to athletes who may be vulnerable to exploitation. The IOC has increased funding for independent investigations into potential misconduct and has strengthened its whistleblowing mechanisms, encouraging athletes and others to report concerns without fear of retribution.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Games represent a pivotal moment for the Olympic Movement. The IOC's commitment to proactive integrity measures, spearheaded by athletes like Dominik Windisch, demonstrates a determination to build a sustainable and ethical future for sport. The hope is that this initiative will not only protect the integrity of the Games but also inspire a global culture of fair play and responsible athleticism. The effectiveness of this program will be closely monitored, with the IOC pledging to adapt and refine its approach based on feedback from athletes and stakeholders.