MILAN-CORTINA, Italy – A familiar logistical challenge has emerged at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, with the athletes’ village reportedly running out of condoms just three days into the Games. While the availability of contraceptives has long been a standard practice at Olympic venues, organizers this cycle appear to have significantly underestimated demand.
According to reports from Italian newspaper La Stampa, an anonymous athlete expressed frustration over the shortage, stating, “The supplies ran out in just three days. They promised us more will arrive, but who knows when.” The shortfall is particularly striking when compared to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where 300,000 condoms were distributed – roughly two per athlete per day.
The Milan-Cortina Games, however, initially stocked only around 10,000 packs, a figure that pales in comparison to the Parisian supply. Organizers have acknowledged the issue and are working to replenish the stock, but a timeline for delivery remains uncertain. The discrepancy in numbers has raised eyebrows, given the well-established tradition of providing condoms to athletes at the Olympics, a practice initiated at the 1988 Seoul Games to promote awareness of sexually transmitted diseases.
The governor of the Lombardy region, Attilio Fontana, recently addressed the situation, stating in a social media post that the provision of free condoms is “an established Olympic practice” and shouldn’t be a source of embarrassment. He further highlighted the proactive approach, referencing a viral Instagram post from Spanish figure skater Olivia Smart showcasing the condoms stamped with the Lombardy Region logo, quipping, “They have everything you need.”
The current Winter Olympics are hosting just under 3,000 athletes, a smaller contingent than the approximately 10,500 who participated in the Paris Summer Games. Despite the smaller overall number, the close proximity of athletes within the Olympic Village – a temporary residential complex in Cortina d’Ampezzo housing roughly 2,900 competitors – creates a unique environment where demand for such resources is predictably high.
The Canadian men’s hockey team is notably absent from the village, having opted to stay in a hotel. However, the vast majority of athletes are residing within the Olympic grounds, utilizing the various amenities provided. Beyond the athletic competitions, the village offers a range of recreational activities, including a fully equipped gym, table football, air hockey, and even a piano. Complimentary beverages, including Coca-Cola and Innocent smoothies, are also readily available.
The condom shortage, while seemingly a minor logistical hiccup, underscores the complexities of managing a large-scale event like the Olympics. The Games bring together thousands of young, highly-conditioned athletes from diverse cultural backgrounds, creating a unique social dynamic. The provision of condoms is not merely a matter of convenience; it’s a public health measure intended to mitigate risk and promote responsible behavior.
The incident also highlights the evolving understanding of athlete well-being. While athletic performance remains the primary focus, organizers are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing the broader health and social needs of competitors. This includes providing access to resources that support sexual health and responsible decision-making.
As the Games progress, with the Closing Ceremonies scheduled for February 22nd, organizers will be under pressure to resolve the condom shortage and ensure that athletes have access to the resources they need. The final days of competition include key events such as the gold medal matches for women’s curling and men’s ice hockey, the 4-man bobsled competition, and the women’s 50-kilometer cross-country skiing race. The focus will remain on athletic achievement, but the logistical challenges behind the scenes will continue to demand attention.
The situation serves as a reminder that even the most meticulously planned events can encounter unforeseen challenges. The response from organizers will be closely watched, not only by the athletes themselves but also by future Olympic committees seeking to learn from this experience and ensure a smooth and well-supported Games for all participants.
