In a significant development for the upcoming 2026 Olympic Winter Games, the Cortina bobsleigh and luge track is on track for pre-certification by March 2025. This important certification, announced by Matthias Böhmer, Competition Director of the International Luge Federation (FIL), during the Nordicum Forum in Lenzerheide, is a crucial step in ensuring that the track meets the standards set by the FIL and the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF).
wintersportsnews: With the 2026 Olympic Winter Games scheduled for February 6-22, the completion of the track in Cortina is essential to host several key events, including bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton competitions. Böhmer confirmed that the pre-approval process will be completed by the end of March 2025, ensuring that the venue is fully equipped to host some of the world’s best athletes.
The construction of this Olympic track has not been without its challenges. Initially delayed and mired in controversy, the project has attracted considerable attention due to environmental concerns raised by activists and scepticism from various stakeholders, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Despite this, the Italian government has reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the Olympic events in the country, emphasising the need to showcase Italy’s sporting prowess.
As construction progresses, with half of the new facility reportedly complete, the authorities have announced that there will be an international training week with a test competition prior to the Olympic season, despite the absence of a World Cup event. Böhmer reassured the public that these preliminary activities will ensure that the track is ready for international competition.
The IOC and the Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee recently visited the site and expressed their satisfaction with the progress made so far. This visit was a crucial moment for the project as it followed a period of uncertainty during which the possible relocation of the bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton events was considered due to the lack of suitable venues in Italy.
The total construction cost is estimated at €۱۱۸ million, reflecting the extensive investment to ensure that the Cortina track is one of the most advanced facilities in the world. Following pre-approval in March 2025, ongoing work will continue until November of the same year, focusing on the completion of supporting infrastructure such as the start area, timing systems and access roads.
The successful delivery of the 2026 Winter Olympics is vital not only to Italy’s reputation as a leading host of international sporting events but also to the local economy of the Cortina region. The track will be a symbol of Italy’s excellence in sports infrastructure, reflecting the country’s commitment to creating a world-class venue.
