Winter Olympics 2026 kicks off in Italy this week with alpine skiing and hockey taking center stage
The 2026 Winter Olympics begin Friday in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, with competition already underway before the opening ceremony. Alpine skiing training runs launched today, while women’s hockey gets underway Thursday, signaling the start of an action-packed two-week sporting spectacle.
The winter olympics schedule spans February 6-22, 2026, featuring some of the world’s most elite athletes competing across multiple venues throughout northern Italy. American skiing icons Mikaela Shiffrin and Lindsey Vonn headline a roster of international competitors ready to pursue Olympic gold.
Alpine Skiing Dominates Early Action
Men’s downhill training began Wednesday with women following Thursday. The first alpine skiing medal event arrives Saturday, February 7, when men compete for gold in the downhill final. Women’s downhill medals follow Sunday, February 8.
The olympics 2026 alpine skiing program continues with Super-G events mid-week and concludes with slalom races February 16-18. Women’s races take place at Cortina d’Ampezzo’s Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre, while men compete at Bormio’s Stelvio Ski Centre.
Women’s Hockey Tournament Heats Up
The women’s hockey tournament features 10 nations competing in two groups through February 19, when medal games determine podium finishers. Defending champion Canada seeks their sixth Olympic gold, while Team USA enters as the 2025 World Championship winners.
The winter olympics opening ceremony takes place February 6, though preliminary hockey matches begin Thursday, February 5. Quarterfinals begin February 13, with semifinals on February 16 and medal games Thursday, February 19.
Comprehensive Coverage Available
All alpine skiing events broadcast live on Peacock and NBC channels, with times listed in Eastern Time. The complete olympic schedule includes over a dozen sports throughout the two-week competition.
Fans can expect drama, speed, and unforgettable moments as the world’s top winter athletes compete on Italy’s stunning mountain slopes.
