As the highly anticipated 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina draw near, excitement is mounting in the region. Plans for this major sporting event are progressing, accompanied by an initiative aimed at benefiting the local community. Starting December 30, residents and second homeowners in Cortina d’Ampezzo will have the
opportunity to purchase tickets through an exclusive platform designed for them.
This initiative ensures that those who reside in Cortina year-round can actively engage in the festivities, rather than merely during peak tourist seasons. The ticketing window will open at 10 AM on Sunday and close at 10 AM on Monday, allowing a select group to secure their spots.
Ticket availability and event highlights
Tickets will be available for three key venues: the Ice
Stadium, the Cortina Sliding Centre, and the Olympia delle Tofane. This initiative not only rewards local residents but also encourages them to immerse themselves in the Olympic spirit throughout the event.
The Milano Cortina Foundation has confirmed that during this exclusive access period, tickets for major events will be available, including thrilling alpine skiing competitions for women and exciting curling matches at the Ice
Stadium. Fans of sledding sports will find tickets for the bob, skeleton, and luge events at the Cortina Sliding Centre. These offerings are designed to foster community involvement during this world-class event.
Anticipated challenges and visitor logistics
Despite the exclusive ticket access, projections indicate that only around 10-15% of total tickets sold will go to local residents, with the majority expected to be claimed by visitors from outside the region, primarily from southern Italy. During peak days, Cortina may welcome as many as 12,000 visitors. To manage this influx, five parking areas will be available, providing approximately 3,500 parking spots. Concerns remain regarding whether this capacity will be sufficient.
Visitor transportation poses a significant challenge for the Olympic organization. The primary transfer area will be located in Longarone, with additional points in San Vito and Dogana Vecchia. From these locations, Dolomiti Bus will operate shuttle services to transport visitors to various competition venues. The readiness of the cable car system is also critical. Fabio Saldini, the government commissioner and administrator of Simico, assures that construction will be completed in time for the Games.
Ticket pricing and accessibility
The success of the cable cars is vital for ensuring smooth access to event locations, particularly to avoid congestion in restricted areas where traffic will be prohibited. If cable car operations are delayed, shuttles will be the only means to transport spectators to their destinations. This scenario highlights the necessity of thorough planning to facilitate a seamless flow of visitors during the Olympics.
In addition to the exclusive access for locals, ticket sales for the general public have begun. With over 530,000 tickets available, prices vary significantly based on the event. For instance, hockey game tickets start at €30, while the closing ceremony can cost as much as €2,900. This pricing structure offers a range of options, making the event accessible to a broader audience.
Pricing overview for popular events
Alpine skiing competition tickets typically range from €100 to €220, while curling final tickets are priced between €50 and €150. Furthermore, tickets for the Paralympics, which will occur concurrently, are set to be even more affordable, starting at just €15. This inclusivity reflects a commitment to making the games accessible to all.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina present a unique opportunity not only for residents but also for sports enthusiasts from around the globe. With meticulous preparations and exclusive ticket access, this event is poised to create lasting memories and unite people from diverse backgrounds in celebration of athletic prowess and international camaraderie.