The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, are benefiting from a dedicated and often unsung, workforce. Beyond the athletes and the spectacle, a significant contribution is coming from volunteers, including a contingent of members from Italy’s Alpini mountain troops. These soldiers, traditionally known for their mountain warfare expertise and community service, are providing crucial logistical and operational support to the Games.
Approximately 1,500 Alpini are deployed across Northern Italy, assisting with a wide range of tasks essential to the smooth running of the Olympics. Their responsibilities extend far beyond ceremonial duties. They are actively involved in preparing and maintaining ski racing slopes, installing safety fencing to prevent skiers from straying into dangerous areas, snow removal, shuttle bus operation, and even conducting doping control procedures. They are also staffing venue entrances, essentially handling many of the behind-the-scenes tasks that ensure competitions can proceed without disruption.
The involvement of the Alpini adds a distinctly local flavor to the international event. Founded in 1872, shortly after the unification of Italy, the Alpini have a long history of defending the nation and responding to emergencies. Their presence at the Olympics isn’t simply about manpower; it represents a deeply ingrained Italian tradition of community resilience and a willingness to contribute to national events. As Valerio Favero, the mayor of Possagno and son of the president of the National Alpine Association, noted, “The Alpini are always there. And never ask anything in return.”
Currently, volunteers like Roberto Fiore and Massimo Alovisi, both from Villar Focchiardo, are stationed in Sondrio, supporting events in Bormio and Livigno. Fiore is part of the ski slope preparation team, ensuring the courses are in optimal condition for competition. Alovisi focuses on snow removal and terrain management, critical tasks given the unpredictable winter weather conditions in the Italian Alps. Their dedication exemplifies the broader commitment of the Alpini to the success of the Games.
The Alpini’s involvement isn’t merely logistical. Their presence is a visible reminder of Italy’s unique cultural identity and its ability to mobilize resources effectively, even in the face of potential challenges. The article in The New York Times highlights how they embody a particular “Italian alchemy” – a knack for turning last-minute preparations and potential disasters into workable solutions. This is particularly relevant in the context of large-scale events like the Olympics, which are notoriously complex to organize.
The Games, running from February 6th to February 22nd, 2026, are also relying on a larger volunteer force of roughly 18,000 individuals spread across northern Italy. These volunteers, identifiable by their navy blue uniforms, represent a diverse cross-section of the population, all contributing to the success of the event. The Alpini, however, bring a unique skillset and a historical connection to the region, making their contribution particularly valuable.
The deployment of the Alpini also speaks to the logistical challenges inherent in hosting the Winter Olympics in a mountainous region. Maintaining ski slopes, ensuring athlete safety, and managing transportation in challenging terrain require specialized expertise. The Alpini, with their training in mountain warfare and their familiarity with the local environment, are well-equipped to address these challenges.
While the focus of the Olympics is rightly on the athletes and their performances, the contributions of support staff and volunteers are essential. The Alpini, with their dedication, experience, and unique cultural identity, are playing a vital role in ensuring that the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are a success. Their involvement is a testament to Italy’s ability to leverage its resources and traditions to deliver a world-class sporting event.
The commitment of these volunteers, including the Alpini, extends beyond simply fulfilling assigned tasks. It’s a demonstration of civic pride and a willingness to contribute to a shared national goal. This spirit of volunteerism is a key ingredient in the success of any major event, and the Milan Cortina Olympics are no exception.
