Skip to Content Facebook Feature Image

PHOTO COLLECTION: 2026 Winter Olympics Venues Cortina

Sport

PHOTO COLLECTION: 2026 Winter Olympics Venues Cortina
Sport

Sport

PHOTO COLLECTION: 2026 Winter Olympics Venues Cortina

2025-02-17 00:01 Last Updated At:00:11

This is a collection of photos chosen by AP photo editors.

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An aerial view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An aerial view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Rho Fair, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Rho Fair, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the main entrance of the Rho Fair, which will be called Milano Ice Park, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Rho, near Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the main entrance of the Rho Fair, which will be called Milano Ice Park, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Rho, near Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Workers tend to the grass at the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Workers tend to the grass at the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An external view of the San Siro Stadium site of the Opening ceremony at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An external view of the San Siro Stadium site of the Opening ceremony at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Rain falls on San Siro Stadium, venue for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Rain falls on San Siro Stadium, venue for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Skiers are seen from above at the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Skiers are seen from above at the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work goes on at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work goes on at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A billboard advertising the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is seen at one of the venues for the alpine ski discipline, in Bormio, Italy, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Trovati)

A billboard advertising the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is seen at one of the venues for the alpine ski discipline, in Bormio, Italy, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near a slope of the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen near a slope of the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the village of Predazzo, venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the village of Predazzo, venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village is under construction at the venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village is under construction at the venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Alpine skiers adorn the windows of a building in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline during the 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Alpine skiers adorn the windows of a building in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline during the 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A sign with writing reading "Apologies for the inconvenience, we are working for the Olympic Games" is seen on a board inside the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A sign with writing reading "Apologies for the inconvenience, we are working for the Olympic Games" is seen on a board inside the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A crane is see by the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A crane is see by the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The church of the Madonna of the Defense is seen in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The church of the Madonna of the Defense is seen in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the finish area at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the finish area at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

FILE - A skier is framed by the Dolomites landscape as she speeds down the Tofane course during an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A skier is framed by the Dolomites landscape as she speeds down the Tofane course during an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A view of the start of an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training at the Tofane slope, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A view of the start of an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training at the Tofane slope, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan.16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan.16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes are seen at the shooting range during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes are seen at the shooting range during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete competes during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete competes during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, where the biathlon discipline will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, where the biathlon discipline will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete participates in a Biathlon World Cup race at the Biathlon Arena in Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete participates in a Biathlon World Cup race at the Biathlon Arena in Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Biathlon Arena where the biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Biathlon Arena where the biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

People walk near Olympic rings near the village of Anterselva where the Biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

People walk near Olympic rings near the village of Anterselva where the Biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

More Images
A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An aerial view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An aerial view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Arena of Verona where the Closing Ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Verona, northern, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Assago Forum which will be the Milano Ice Skating Arena where figure skating and short track speed skating disciplines of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is under construction, in Assago, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Rho Fair, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Rho Fair, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, near Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the main entrance of the Rho Fair, which will be called Milano Ice Park, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Rho, near Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the main entrance of the Rho Fair, which will be called Milano Ice Park, venue for the ice hockey and speed skating disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Rho, near Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Workers tend to the grass at the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Workers tend to the grass at the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the San Siro Stadium where the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An external view of the San Siro Stadium site of the Opening ceremony at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

An external view of the San Siro Stadium site of the Opening ceremony at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Rain falls on San Siro Stadium, venue for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Rain falls on San Siro Stadium, venue for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Milan, Italy, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Ski Area Mottolino, which will be called Livigno Snow Park, venue of the Freestyle and Snowboarding disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Carosello 3000 track which will be called Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, venue for the Freestyle skiing discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Livigno, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Skiers are seen from above at the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Skiers are seen from above at the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Cross Country skiing stadium which will be used during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Tesero, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work is seen at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work goes on at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work goes on at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A billboard advertising the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is seen at one of the venues for the alpine ski discipline, in Bormio, Italy, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Trovati)

A billboard advertising the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is seen at one of the venues for the alpine ski discipline, in Bormio, Italy, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near a slope of the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen near a slope of the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine ski and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the village of Predazzo, venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the village of Predazzo, venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village is under construction at the venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

The Olympic village is under construction at the venue for the ski jumping and nordic combined disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

A view of the Ski Jumping Stadium for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Predazzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Construction work takes place at the Cortina Sliding Center, venue for the bob, luge and skeleton disciplines, at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Alpine skiers adorn the windows of a building in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline during the 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Alpine skiers adorn the windows of a building in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline during the 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A sign with writing reading "Apologies for the inconvenience, we are working for the Olympic Games" is seen on a board inside the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A sign with writing reading "Apologies for the inconvenience, we are working for the Olympic Games" is seen on a board inside the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A crane is see by the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A crane is see by the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The church of the Madonna of the Defense is seen in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The church of the Madonna of the Defense is seen in Cortina d'Ampezzo, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

A view of the finish area at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the finish area at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

FILE - A skier is framed by the Dolomites landscape as she speeds down the Tofane course during an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A skier is framed by the Dolomites landscape as she speeds down the Tofane course during an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A view of the start of an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training at the Tofane slope, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

FILE - A view of the start of an alpine ski, women's World Cup downhill training at the Tofane slope, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati, File)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Tofane schuss, venue for the alpine ski discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan.16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

The Olympic rings adorn the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, which will be called Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, venue for the curling discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Thursday, Jan.16, 2025. (AP Photo/Giovanni Auletta)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes are seen at the shooting range during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes are seen at the shooting range during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete competes during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete competes during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, where the biathlon discipline will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, where the biathlon discipline will take place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete participates in a Biathlon World Cup race at the Biathlon Arena in Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

An athlete participates in a Biathlon World Cup race at the Biathlon Arena in Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Biathlon Arena where the biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

A view of the Biathlon Arena where the biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Athletes compete during a Biathlon World Cup event at the Anterselva Biathlon Arena, venue for the biathlon discipline at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Anterselva, northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

People walk near Olympic rings near the village of Anterselva where the Biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

People walk near Olympic rings near the village of Anterselva where the Biathlon will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Olympic rings are seen near the village of Anterselva where the biathlon discipline will take place during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in northern Italy, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati)

Next Article

With Depardieu, has the #MeToo movement finally won in France?

2025-05-16 21:56 Last Updated At:22:00

PARIS (AP) — For powerful men in France’s film industry, this was a week of reckoning. Gérard Depardieu — the country’s most famous male actor — was convicted of sexual assault. Two days later, the Cannes Film Festival barred another actor accused of rape from walking the red carpet.

Together, the decisions sent a message that France had long resisted: that artistic brilliance may no longer shield those who abuse their power.

For decades, Depardieu was revered as French cinema’s “sacred monster” — a towering talent whose gluttony, volatility and magnetism became part of his myth. With more than 250 films to his name, many believed he would remain untouchable even after more than 20 women accused him of sexual misconduct.

Now, that myth has cracked.

The verdict has revived a broader question France has ducked since the dawn of #MeToo: Can a country that celebrates seduction and irreverence finally hold its male icons to account?

France has long lived its own #MeToo contradiction. That talent, charm, or intellect forgives misconduct. That the art excuses the artist. This is the land that gave the world Brigitte Bardot’s pout and Catherine Deneuve’s poise — and then watched both recoil when the movement came knocking. Deneuve has defended “the right" to seduce, while Bardot has dismissed feminism outright: “I like men.”

But the ground is shifting — fast.

Depardieu was handed an 18-month suspended sentence Tuesday for groping two women on a 2021 film set. He denies the charges and is appealing.

“It’s the end of impunity of artists with a capital A,” Carine Durrieu Diebolt, a lawyer for one of the two women who won their case against Depardieu, told The Associated Press. The verdict represented “a bookend for putting actors on a pedestal because they were talented,” she added.

Two days later, the prestigious Cannes Film Festival barred actor Théo Navarro-Mussy — accused of rape by three former partners — from attending the premiere of a film he stars in, even though the file was dropped for lack of evidence. The women are launching a civil complaint.

Navarro-Mussy denies wrongdoing. His lawyer said that she’s unaware of any ongoing proceedings against him.

What stunned wasn’t just the decision, but who made it. Cannes director Thierry Frémaux had long been seen as emblematic of the old guard. He defended Roman Polanski for years and continued to screen his films despite the director’s 1977 guilty plea in the U.S. for sex with a 13-year-old. In 2018, when asked why Cannes still included Polanski, Frémaux said: “These are complicated matters.”

Frémaux opened 2023's festival with a film starring Johnny Depp, despite the actor’s highly public legal battle with ex-wife Amber Heard over allegations of domestic abuse, in which he was never criminally charged. When asked about the backlash, Frémaux replied: “I only have one rule: it’s the freedom of thinking, and the freedom of speech and acting within a legal framework.”

This week, the rules changed.

“The Cannes decision is of course linked to the Depardieu verdict,” said Céline Piques of Osez le féminisme (“Dare Feminism!”), a group that campaigns against sexual violence. “(They’ve) realized which way the wind is blowing. Frémaux is trying to right the wrongs.”

Not everyone welcomed the verdict — or what followed — as a cultural turning point.

Fanny Ardant, one of French cinema’s grandes dames and a longtime friend of Depardieu, sat on his side in court. She is now directing him in a film in Portugal, despite the conviction.

“Fanny Ardant? She completely missed the point,” said Piques. “She downplayed the violence, normalized it. That’s rape culture, plain and simple.”

Juliette Binoche, Cannes jury president and one of France’s most respected actors, struck a note of restraint: “He’s not a monster. He’s a man — one who has, apparently, been desacralized.”

Her caution captured something deeper: a country caught between the urge to change and the instinct to protect its giants.

In 2024, more than 22,000 rapes were reported in France. Fewer than 3% led to convictions. “The Depardieu verdict shows there’s progress,” said lawyer Anne-Sophie Laguens, who works with victims of sexual assault. “But for most women, the barriers to justice remain enormous.”

When Bertrand Cantat — front man of Noir Désir and once one of France’s bestselling rock singers — launched a 2018 comeback tour, he had served just four years in prison for killing his partner, actor Marie Trintignant, during a violent assault.

Despite public outrage, he returned to the stage and performed.

“That would be unthinkable today,” said Piques. “The public mood has changed. What we tolerate has changed.”

One breakthrough came not from a film set, but an Avignon courtroom. The conviction of 51 men for drugging and raping Gisele Pelicot — a case long ignored despite her pleas — marked a turning point. For years, shame was hers. Now, it belongs to the perpetrators.

“It proved rapists aren’t just strangers in alleys,” said Piques. “They’re husbands. Colleagues. Respected men.”

That shift in shame is now rippling through the cultural world — once seen as a bastion of male privilege. Recently. director Christophe Ruggia was convicted of abusing actor Adèle Haenel when she was a minor, though he is appealing; and actor-director Nicolas Bedos, was sentenced for sexual assault.

Slowly but surely, yes. The system that long protected men like Depardieu is not yet dismantled, but it is shifting.

As one of the actor’s accusers said through tears after the ruling: “I’m very, very much satisfied with the decision. That’s a victory for me, really. And a big progress, a step forward. I feel justice was made.”

FILE - French actor Gerard Depardieu, left, and Belgian actress Cecile de France pose during a photo call for the film "Quand J'etais Chanteur," at the 59th International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on May 26, 2006. (AP Photo/Francois Mori, File)

FILE - French actor Gerard Depardieu, left, and Belgian actress Cecile de France pose during a photo call for the film "Quand J'etais Chanteur," at the 59th International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on May 26, 2006. (AP Photo/Francois Mori, File)

Recommended Articles
Hot · Posts