With less than two months until the 2026 Winter Olympics, Milano Cortina organizers are facing significant challenges including funding delays from the Italian government and unseasonably warm weather hindering artificial snow production. FIS President Johan Eliasch warned these issues reflect broader structural pressures on winter sports, advocating for a rotation system for future Games to control costs and address climate change concerns. He also commented on athlete participation, political neutrality, and the importance of maintaining the Olympic brand's integrity.

Jeonbuk Province has been selected as South Korea's candidate to bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics, surprisingly defeating Seoul in a domestic bidding process. The province proposes a city partnership model and a 'K-Culture Olympics' leveraging traditional culture and modern content, aligning with the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) 'Olympic Agenda 2020' principles. While facing challenges including limited government support and rumors of negative feedback, Jeonbuk is actively building public consensus and collaborating with other regions like Seoul, Daegu, Gwangju, Chungbuk, and Jeonnam. The final decision by the IOC is expected around 2029.

Jeonbuk Province, South Korea, has officially begun its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics after being selected as the domestic candidate city. With intensified international competition, there's a growing call for comprehensive government support and diplomatic efforts. Jeonbuk aims for a low-cost, high-efficiency 'economic Olympics,' a 'green Olympics' based on renewable energy, and a 'cultural Olympics' combining K-culture with advanced technologies. The success of the bid hinges on close cooperation with the government, particularly given the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) preference for long-term dialogue with potential host cities. President Lee has pledged significant national support, including infrastructure development and K-culture promotion. Jeonbuk emphasizes a 'Korea One Team' approach to secure the bid.

In a Christmas message, European Olympic Committees (EOC) President Spyros Capralos reviewed the year's accomplishments, emphasizing strengthened governance, Kirsty Coventry's election as IOC president, a busy event calendar, and the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Games. He highlighted the EOC's commitment to gender balance, the strong relationship with the IOC, and the success of various European Games and Youth Olympic Festivals. Capralos also noted key milestones like the EU NOC meeting and the handover of the EOC EU Office Director role, and expressed confidence in European athletes' performance at Los Angeles 2028.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is highlighting the social legacy of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, emphasizing a strategy to promote lasting habits of health, inclusion, and daily physical activity across Italy. Over 70 initiatives are already underway, targeting education, workplaces, and communities to integrate movement into daily life and create a more active and connected society. The Games aim to leave a lasting impact beyond the sporting event, fostering healthier lifestyles and improved quality of life.