Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: A Spectacular Opening Day Captured in Pictures
The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics kicked off with a flurry of excitement and breathtaking action across various disciplines. From the icy precision of curling to the high-speed thrills of downhill skiing, the opening day offered a visual feast for sports enthusiasts worldwide. This collection showcases the best images from the Games, highlighting the dedication, skill, and occasional drama that define Olympic competition.
Cross Country Skiing and Speed Skating Highlights
In Lago di Tesero, athletes gathered at the start line for the women's cross country 10km + 10km skiathlon, setting the stage for a gruelling test of endurance. Meanwhile, in Milan, Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam was spotted taking a rest during training for the 1,000m long track event, a moment of calm before the storm of competition.
Downhill Drama and Freestyle Flair
The women's downhill training sessions provided plenty of spectacle, with volunteers meticulously inspecting athlete bibs at the starting line. A particularly brave coach was seen perched on a peak to watch the action unfold, underscoring the risks and rewards of this high-velocity sport. In freestyle skiing, Marin Hamill of the US and China's Liu Mengting showcased their skills during slopestyle qualifications, while Sarah Höfflin of Switzerland experienced a dramatic ski loss mid-competition.
Curling and Ice Hockey Team Spirit
On the curling rink, Sweden's Isabella Wranå delivered a precise stone throw during a mixed doubles match against Switzerland, highlighting the strategic depth of the sport. Over in ice hockey, Italy's women's team demonstrated unity with a pre-game huddle before their preliminary round clash with Sweden, emphasising the teamwork essential to Olympic success.
Notable Performances and Comeback Stories
Freestyle moguls training in Livigno saw Anastassiya Gorodko of Kazakhstan in action, while France's Maxence Muzaton took a tumble during the men's downhill, a reminder of the fine line between triumph and mishap. American skiing legend Lindsey Vonn completed a training run ahead of the women's downhill, as she pursues a medal despite a recent ACL rupture, adding a layer of inspiration to the day's events.
Grace Henderson of Team USA also competed in women's freestyle skiing slopestyle qualification, rounding out a day filled with athletic prowess and Olympic spirit. The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have begun with a bang, promising more unforgettable moments in the days to come.
