Can You Be Extraordinary Like Zlatan at the Winter Olympics?

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the former AC Milan and Sweden footballer, is set to open the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, sharing insights on what it takes to become "a champion in Milan." This announcement has generated significant excitement as the world gears up for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled to commence on Friday, 6 February 2026. Ibrahimovic's involvement adds a unique flair to the event, bridging the worlds of football and winter sports.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The announcement of Zlatan Ibrahimovic opening the 2026 Winter Olympic Games comes as part of a broader strategy to engage audiences and create a buzz around the event. Ibrahimovic, known for his charisma and larger-than-life persona, will be a key figure in promoting the games, which aim to attract a global audience to Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Key takeaways

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will open the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing star power to the event.
The Games are set to take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo from 6 February 2026.
BBC will provide extensive coverage of the Olympics for UK audiences.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the announcement of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo as hosts in June 2019, preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics have been in full swing. Here’s a brief timeline of key milestones:

June 2019: Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo awarded the Winter Olympics.
March 2022: Construction begins on Olympic venues.
October 2023: Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced as the opening figure for the Games.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of Ibrahimovic's role in the opening ceremony signifies a strategic move to leverage celebrity influence in sports. This follows a trend where major events utilise well-known athletes to draw attention and elevate the spectacle of the Olympics.

What was already established

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics were already expected to showcase a variety of winter sports and attract athletes from around the world. The infrastructure and venues are being developed to meet international standards, with a focus on sustainability.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Olympics are likely to boost tourism, with potential benefits for UK viewers through increased travel packages and media coverage. UK households can expect to see extensive broadcasts and highlights across various platforms, particularly through the BBC.

Businesses and jobs

The event is expected to create jobs in both Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, potentially influencing the UK economy as businesses may seek partnerships or sponsorship opportunities related to the Games.

Policy and regulation

As the Games approach, both the UK and Italian governments will likely engage in discussions about travel regulations, safety protocols, and support for athletes and tourists attending the event.

Numbers that matter

15: The number of sports featured in the Winter Olympics.
2: The host cities for the 2026 Winter Games, Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
80+: Estimated number of countries expected to participate.

Definitions and jargon buster

Winter Olympics: A major international sports event held every four years, featuring winter sports.
BBC: British Broadcasting Corporation, the UK's national broadcaster providing coverage of the Olympics.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

UK audiences should start preparing for the upcoming broadcasts and coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics, including potential ticketing information and travel packages.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Keep an eye on updates regarding the finalisation of the Olympic venues and the announcement of athlete participation, as these will influence public interest and engagement.

Signals to watch

Official announcements from the Olympic committees regarding participating countries.
Updates on ticket sales and travel arrangements for UK viewers.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow updates from the BBC regarding coverage schedules and athlete highlights.
Explore travel options to Italy if planning to attend the Games.

Don’t

Don’t wait until the last minute to secure travel or accommodation, as prices may rise.
Don’t miss out on local events or promotions related to the Olympics in the UK.

Checklist

Check the BBC for the latest updates on the Olympics.
Plan your travel early if you intend to visit Milan or Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Stay informed about the participating athletes and events.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As preparations for the Winter Olympics progress, uncertainties still exist regarding global travel restrictions and health protocols that could affect attendance. Additionally, the impact of geopolitical tensions may also influence participation and visitor numbers.

Bottom line

The 2026 Winter Olympics, featuring Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a prominent figure, promises to be an exciting event for UK audiences. As we approach the opening ceremony, staying informed and prepared will enhance the experience for all involved.

FAQs

Who will open the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will open the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing his star power and experience to the event.

When do the 2026 Winter Olympics start?

The 2026 Winter Olympics will start on 6 February 2026, in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Where can I watch the Winter Olympics in the UK?

The BBC will provide comprehensive coverage of the Winter Olympics for viewers in the UK.