The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina kick off with the opening ceremony at Milan's San Siro stadium. Athletes from over 90 nations will compete across various snow and ice disciplines. Team GB eyes its most successful Winter Games, potentially winning up to eight medals. The event spans multiple locations in northern Italy, promising a diverse and exciting sporting experience.

Great Britain's medal hopes rest on athletes like Matt Weston and Marcus Wyatt in skeleton, who dominated the World Cup. Snowboarders Mia Brookes and Charlotte Bankes, along with freestyle skiers Kirsty Muir and Zoe Atkin, are also contenders. Figure skaters Lewis Gibson and Lilah Fear aim for a first British figure skating medal since 1994.

New to the Olympic program is ski mountaineering. However, the build-up hasn't been without challenges. The ice hockey venue in Milan faced delays, and some Russian athletes will compete under a neutral flag. With the opening ceremony underway, the focus shifts to the competitions and the pursuit of Olympic glory.

The Winter Olympics offer a chance for athletes to showcase their skills and for nations to celebrate sportsmanship. The games will include a variety of events, from traditional sports to new additions like ski mountaineering, with a focus on delivering an unforgettable experience for both athletes and fans. The next few weeks will tell who will take home the gold.