The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are reportedly facing a significant financial shortfall, with Italian media outlet Il Fatto Quotidiano estimating a deficit of around €290 million as organisational accounts remain unresolved.
The Games’ budget, initially set at €1.3 billion, was later revised to €1.7 billion, supported by more than €500 million in government funding. However, according to the report, costs have continued to exceed projections, leaving the organising foundation still unable to close its final balance sheet.
Key spending items include €37 million on uniforms, €5 million on furniture, and €13 million for the Olympic torch relay, alongside other operational costs that have contributed to the overspend.
The financial strain has also reportedly led to outstanding payments involving the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and the Paralympic Committee, which are said to be awaiting significant reimbursements from the organising body.
With broader economic pressures in Italy adding further uncertainty, questions are now being raised over whether additional state support will be required to cover the gap ahead of the Games.
The situation underscores the growing financial complexity of hosting modern mega-events, where rising costs and infrastructure demands continue to challenge original budget forecasts.