In Milan, a significant protest saw thousands of demonstrators voicing opposition to the Winter Olympics, focusing on a variety of crucial issues. Among the complaints were the environmental impact of artificial snow production and deforestation, as well as the ongoing housing crisis that local residents face in the financial and fashion capital of Italy. Demonstrators held signs criticizing the event and highlighted the growing concerns over the sustainability of hosting the Olympics amidst these issues.

The police heightened security measures following violent clashes at a protest in Turin where over 100 officers were injured the previous weekend, reflecting the tension surrounding the event and the concerns raised by the activists. Francesca Missana, a 29-year-old protester, expressed the sentiment that the Olympics are no longer sustainable from either an environmental or social perspective, indicating a shift in public opinion about such large-scale events.

Critics of the Winter Olympics argue that the infrastructure required for the games has a detrimental effect on fragile mountain environments, and they lament the widespread use of energy-intensive artificial snow, which further exacerbates environmental concerns. Additionally, many locals report that the cost of living in Milan has skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for residents to afford housing as wealthy newcomers are attracted by tax incentives, leading to a significant disparity within the city amidst the grandeur of the upcoming Olympic games.