Italy has drawn up a comprehensive security plan for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, centred on a single national command structure and extensive on-the-ground measures. The plan includes international coordination, strict access controls and enhanced surveillance, as the country prepares to host millions of visitors.
Centralised command and coordination
The security operation will be coordinated by the International Olympic Operations Centre, known as SOIO. Based in Rome, the centre will operate around the clock from the opening of the Games on 6 February and will work in close cooperation with the international operations centre and police headquarters in the northern cities of Bolzano, Milan, Sondrio, Trento, Venice and Verona, according to a police statement.
International police cooperation
The Italian police stated that officers from foreign police forces, along with personnel from Interpol and Europol, will be present. Their role will be to ensure the timely exchange of information and the management of any critical issues requiring international cooperation.
Scale of the event and expected attendance
The Winter Olympic Games will take place from 6 to 22 February. The Italian government expects approximately two million visitors, including around 60,000 people attending the opening ceremony at the San Siro stadium in Milan.
Surveillance, controlled zones and on-site measures
Police confirmed that snipers will be deployed to oversee security for the Games and related events. They will be positioned at elevated points across designated red zones, where access will be strictly controlled. Several hundred cameras will also be installed across all areas.
Bomb disposal units and canine teams
In addition, police will deploy dogs and bomb disposal teams tasked with securing and protecting Olympic facilities. Their duties will include conducting security checks at venues and related locations.
Transport hubs and border controls
The security plan also предусматри strengthened checks at railway stations and border crossings, according to the police announcement.
Heightened security in Milan
Security measures will be particularly strict in Milan, where a series of protests are expected from Thursday along the route of the Olympic torch relay. The demonstrations are planned in opposition to the economic and environmental impact of the Games.
Red zone designation in city centre
On Friday, the city centre of Milan will be designated a red zone, closed to both vehicles and pedestrians. Offices and commercial shops in the area will remain closed.
Cybersecurity operations
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated that the operation will, for the first time at a major event in Italy, include a cybersecurity control room operating 24 hours a day.
Protection of high-profile guests
Police have also deployed round-the-clock security around hotels in Milan that will host United States Vice President J. D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, members of the International Olympic Committee, several members of royal families, as well as staff of the World Anti-Doping Agency and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Source: Cyprus News Agency, ANA-MPA