Almost 70 years after the Winter Olympics of 1956 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is preparing to host Milano Cortina 2026. This event, which will bring together the world’s best athletes, is eagerly awaited by winter sports enthusiasts. It will be an opportunity to celebrate the evolution of the sport and pay tribute to past Games, while highlighting the innovations and new challenges of the Olympic world.

As preparations progress, we have gathered the testimonies of two prominent skiers: Jean Mermet, a former French athlete who took part in the 1956 Olympics, and Lindsey Vonn, an American Olympic champion who is considering a return to competition. These testimonies provide a better understanding of how the Winter Olympics and skiing have evolved over the years.