Mon, January 19, 2026
Sun, January 18, 2026

Milan & Cortina d'Ampezzo to Co-Host 2026 Winter Olympics

A Dual-City Spectacle: Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo

The selection of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo as the host cities represents a unique approach to the Winter Olympics. Milan, a global hub of fashion and finance, will serve as the central hub for many events, offering a modern and dynamic backdrop. Cortina d'Ampezzo, a picturesque alpine resort town renowned for its beauty and history, will host events focused on winter sports traditions. This combination offers a diverse and appealing experience for athletes and spectators alike. While the exact distribution of events between the two cities is still being finalized, expect Milan to host a significant portion of the competitions, catering to broader international audiences, while Cortina d'Ampezzo will showcase the iconic charm and heritage of the Italian Alps.

Television and Streaming: Your Viewing Options

For viewers in the United States, NBC and its streaming platform, Peacock, will be the primary gateways to the 2026 Winter Olympics. NBC's traditional broadcast network will provide extensive live coverage, alongside highlight reels and analysis. Peacock, NBC's subscription-based streaming service, will offer a more comprehensive package, including live streaming of events, on-demand replays, and potentially exclusive behind-the-scenes content. A paid subscription to Peacock will be necessary to access the full breadth of Olympic content online. While exact broadcast schedules are yet to be released, anticipate a daily program of events covering the entire duration of the Games. Keep an eye on NBC's website and local listings for precise times and event selections.

Key Events to Anticipate

The 2026 Winter Olympics promise a thrilling lineup of competitions. Several events consistently draw large audiences and are anticipated to be highlights:

  • Figure Skating: The artistry, athleticism, and drama of figure skating are perennial favorites. Expect captivating performances and intense rivalries across various disciplines, from singles to pairs and ice dance.
  • Snowboarding: Witness gravity-defying feats in slopestyle, halfpipe, and other snowboarding disciplines as athletes push the boundaries of what's possible.
  • Hockey: International hockey competition is a cornerstone of the Winter Olympics, and 2026 will be no exception. Expect fierce battles between national teams vying for the coveted gold medal.
  • Skiing: From the adrenaline-pumping speed of downhill racing to the endurance required for cross-country skiing, the diverse world of skiing will be thoroughly showcased.
  • New Events & Disciplines: The Olympic program is frequently updated. Expect announcements about potential new events and disciplines leading up to the games.

Time Zone Considerations: Planning Your Viewing

Crucially, Italy operates six hours ahead of Eastern Time. This means that events taking place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo will occur later in the day for U.S. viewers. Careful planning and adjustment of viewing schedules are essential to avoid missing your favorite competitions. For instance, an event starting at 10:00 AM local time in Italy would be broadcast around 4:00 AM Eastern Time.

Staying Informed: Updates and Further Information

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, NBC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will release more detailed schedules, venue information, and athlete profiles. Regularly checking their official websites is highly recommended. The anticipation is building, and the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo are poised to be an unforgettable celebration of winter sports and international camaraderie.


Read the Full The Baltimore Sun Article at:
[ https://www.baltimoresun.com/2025/12/17/how-to-watch-the-winter-olympics-2026/ ]