CGTN Poll: 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Spark Excitement

The anticipation surrounding the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics is palpable, as the event promises to be more than just a showcase of winter sports. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, the Games are set to highlight the vibrant culture of winter sports infused with a distinctive Italian charm.

A recent survey conducted by CGTN among a global audience indicated that 61.2 percent of respondents believe the values embodied by the Olympics can cultivate inclusiveness across the international community. Many participants expressed their desire for the Games to serve as an essential platform for fostering dialogue, exchange, and cooperation among countries.

One of the noteworthy aspects of the upcoming Olympics is the return of ski mountaineering, a sport that has been absent from the Olympic roster for 78 years. This addition is expected to invigorate the Games, with 71 percent of poll respondents believing that this sport, blending rich historical traditions with modern competitive elements, will infuse fresh energy into the event.

The 2026 Winter Olympics is placing a significant focus on environmental responsibilities, integrating sustainable and eco-friendly designs into critical components such as the Olympic torch, medals, and venue constructions. The poll results indicate that 58.1 percent of participants view these initiatives as a commendable effort towards achieving green and low-carbon development.

Moreover, an impressive 75.2 percent of those surveyed concur that the infrastructure improvements, including the renovation of roads and railways, undertaken by host cities in preparation for the Games, represent an invaluable opportunity to enhance overall related infrastructure.

Technological advancements, notably those driven by artificial intelligence, are expected to take center stage during the Winter Olympics broadcasts. Respondents expressed high anticipation for features such as real-time 360-degree replay systems and AI trajectory-tracking, with 62.4 percent of participants looking forward to these innovations that will enhance the viewing experience.

Additionally, China Media Group (CMG) is set to break new ground as the sole global media organization tasked with producing 8K international public broadcasts for the Games. For the first time, CMG will also handle the international public signals for opening and closing ceremonies, as well as for figure skating and short track speed skating.

The survey findings were disseminated through CGTN's platforms in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, garnering responses from 8,854 participants within a span of just 24 hours, reflecting a broad interest in the upcoming Winter Olympics.