Preparations for the Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy are in full swing, with last-minute construction work and bustling activity near the event venues. Despite facing time constraints, organizers managed to complete a new sliding center just in time for the Games, though a cable car for spectators at the women’s Alpine skiing events is not yet operational.
The International Olympic Committee had previously urged organizers to relocate events to existing venues to save time and money, but the decision was made to proceed with the new facilities in Cortina d’Ampezzo. While some areas may still require finishing touches, officials assure that all necessary arrangements for athletes are in place.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry expressed confidence in the progress made, stating that the preparations are on track. The organizing committee for Milano Cortina, however, did not provide an immediate response to inquiries from Reuters.
The Winter Games, scheduled from Feb. 6-22, will feature nearly 3,000 athletes from 93 countries spread across six Olympic villages in Northern Italy. With competitions spanning 116 events in eight sports and 16 disciplines on ice and snow, this year’s Olympics are set to be the most extensive in history.