Italian cities appear to hold lead in bidding for 2026 Winter Olympics

Italy’s bid to host the 2026 Winter Olympics appears to hold an edge over a competing effort from Sweden, according to an analysis issued Friday by the International Olympic Committee.

The 144-page evaluation report notes that the joint bid cities of Milan and Cortina enjoy “unified backing� from the regional and national governments, as well as substantial financial guarantees for construction.

The IOC said its polling — which tends to shed favorable light on the Games — has estimated public support at or above 80% in Italy.

The numbers have not been as strong in Stockholm and Are, settling at 54% to 59%, though the IOC said it has been told such figures are “high in the Swedish context.�

Unlike the Italian government, Swedish officials have not promised significant financial support and the municipality of Stockholm has stated it would not sign the IOC’s host city contract.

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“While the concept is solid,� the report said of the bid, “some operational aspects need further details.�

Sweden does have one advantage, with the IOC saying it is “a winter sports country with a long tradition and experience in organizing snow and ice events.�

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