Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Medals Unveiled, Emphasizing Community and Togetherness

The medals for the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics were officially unveiled in Venice on July 15, 2025. Raffaella Panie, the chief designer, explained that the design focuses on themes of connection, collective effort, and positivity. The medals feature interlocking semicircles on both the front and back, representing the collaboration between Milan and Cortina while embodying the journey of athletes and their support systems.

Panie emphasized that the medal is divided into two halves, reflecting both the individual athlete and the teamwork that contributed to their success, including families and coaches. The design process deeply involved consultations with athletes, leading to the idea of sharing success with those who have helped along the way. By streamlining the design, they aimed to create a clean and modern aesthetic, allowing attention to be drawn to the Olympic rings and to the athletes themselves.

In discussing the broader message behind the medals, Panie noted that the Games intend to celebrate not only Italy's rich cultural offerings but also the spirit of togetherness. The event’s motto, “It's Your Vibe,” underscores the commitment to unity and community. When comparing the Milan-Cortina medals to those from Beijing 2022, she pointed out that while Beijing’s design was rooted in traditional culture, Milan-Cortina reflects a contemporary vision of Italy, characterized by its avant-garde movement showcased through the medals' curved and dynamic lines.

Each medal prominently features the Olympic rings or Paralympic symbol on one side, and the Games' emblems on the reverse. Notably, the Paralympic medals will also include Braille for visually impaired athletes. Moreover, the medals are produced using environmentally friendly materials and renewable energy sources, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability. Giovanni Malago, president of the organizing committee, remarked that every medal tells a story of perseverance and the dreams of those who have strived for success. The Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026, followed by the Paralympics from March 6 to 15, 2026.