Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics conclude with Verona closing ceremony

In Brief

The 2026 Winter Olympics ended with a ceremony in Verona and reflections from athletes on their experiences.

Key Facts

• Individual Neutral Athletes were allowed to attend the closing ceremony after not participating in the opening event
• The closing ceremony took place inside the Verona Arena, an ancient Roman amphitheater
• IOC President Kirsty Coventry highlighted that the Games were inclusive and a place for everyone
• Athletes including Mikaela Shiffrin, Breezy Johnson, Ilia Malinin, and Elana Meyers Taylor shared emotional reflections on their Olympic journeys
• The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics officially ended on Sunday

What Happened

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics concluded with a closing ceremony held in the Verona Arena, an ancient Roman amphitheater. Individual Neutral Athletes, who had not been present at the opening ceremony, were allowed to attend the closing event. IOC President Kirsty Coventry praised the inclusivity of the Games, while several athletes spoke about the emotional and competitive challenges they faced during the Olympics.

Why It Matters

The closing ceremony marked the official end of the 2026 Winter Olympics, highlighting the cultural significance of hosting the event in Italy's historic Verona. The participation of Individual Neutral Athletes at the closing ceremony reflects ongoing efforts to include all competitors regardless of political circumstances. Athlete reflections provide insight into the pressures and emotional experiences at the highest level of winter sports competition.