Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics to Introduce Six New Events
The Olympic Games are a dynamic spectacle that transforms with each edition. New host cities emerge, fresh athletic talents capture the world's attention, and the roster of sports and events continually evolves. Every few years, spectators are treated to novel experiences that redefine the Games. The Winter Olympics are no exception to this tradition of innovation. Each iteration mirrors the expansion of winter sports and the pursuit of greater balance, excitement, and worldwide engagement. The upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will uphold this legacy by incorporating several groundbreaking additions to its program.
Six New Events Set to Debut at Milan Cortina 2026
When the Opening Ceremony commences on February 6, 2026, audiences worldwide will witness the introduction of six new events to the Olympic Winter Games. Some of these events represent modernized versions of existing sports, while others provide long-awaited opportunities for women and mixed-gender teams. Broadcasting live on NBC and Peacock, the 2026 Games will showcase innovative formats across skiing, sliding sports, and ski jumping. These changes are poised to deliver heightened action, increased medal opportunities, and compelling narratives for fans to follow.
Behind the Scenes: Preparation for Milan Cortina 2026
The most significant addition is Ski Mountaineering, commonly referred to as "skimo." This marks the only entirely new sport at the 2026 Winter Games. The event blends endurance with technical prowess, as athletes ascend uphill on skis, navigate a transition zone, and then descend rapidly. The Olympic program will feature men's and women's sprint events, along with a mixed relay where one male and one female athlete collaborate across four runs.
Women's Doubles Luge will also make its Olympic debut. While Doubles Luge has been a part of the Games since the 1960s, it was previously exclusive to male competitors. In Milan Cortina, women will finally participate in the two-athlete format, lying together on a single sled as they speed down the track.
Mixed-team Skeleton introduces another novel element. Skeleton athletes race headfirst down an icy track, and in 2026, teams will consist of one man and one woman. Each athlete will complete a run, with their combined times determining the final standings.
Dual Moguls will join the freestyle skiing program for the first time. Two skiers will race side by side down a course filled with moguls, jumps, and tricks. Judges will evaluate their performances, and the higher-scoring athlete advances to subsequent rounds.
Alpine Skiing Team Combined also debuts, featuring one athlete skiing the downhill run and a teammate tackling the slalom. Their combined time will decide the winner.
Finally, Women's Large Hill Ski Jumping arrives, allowing female athletes to compete on the same large hill traditionally used by men. This addition promises larger jumps and more spectacular flights during the Games.
