As the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics prepare to commence this week, International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) President Johan Eliasch has highlighted China's enduring Olympic legacy while addressing logistical considerations for Italy's upcoming Games. In a recent interview with CGTN Sports Scene, Eliasch praised Beijing's 2022 Winter Games infrastructure as "very impressive," emphasizing its lasting impact on global snow sports.
"The venues don't only support athlete performance, but also provide very high standards for international spectators and media coverage," Eliasch noted, adding that China's Olympic facilities continue to demonstrate readiness for elite competitions. His comments come as Milano Cortina prepares to make history with events spread across five locations – the most geographically dispersed Winter Games to date.
While acknowledging the logistical challenges of multi-venue organization, including increased costs and carbon footprint concerns, the FIS president suggested the Italian model might influence future Olympic planning. "Is this the future, or will this be seen as an experiment? That remains to be seen," he observed.
All eyes will be on Chinese freeski champion Gu Ailing, who seeks to build on her two gold medals from Beijing 2022. Eliasch joined global sports enthusiasts in anticipating her performance, stating: "Everybody is going to watch what she's doing." The Games officially open February 6, with snowboarding competitions commencing February 5.
