In Milan, an anti-Olympics demonstration turned violent when a group of approximately 100 protesters broke away from a larger gathering of around 5,000 people on Saturday. These protesters launched fireworks, smoke bombs, and bottles at the police, who responded with water cannons and tear gas. The situation escalated briefly but calmed down within minutes, as reported by Italpress, which captured video footage of the incident.

The demonstration initially focused on issues related to housing and environmental concerns, drawing attention to rising inequality in a city experiencing a significant housing crisis. Over the past decade, Milan's real estate market has boomed, driven by changes in tax regulations, which have unfortunately pushed out many long-term residents. The protesters argue that hosting the Olympics stifles public funds that could be better spent addressing these pressing local issues, and they cite the adverse environmental impacts of new infrastructure developments needed for the event, particularly in smaller alpine towns.

This conflict highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding major international events and urban development, as cities like Milan grapple with balancing economic opportunities against social equity and environmental sustainability. The Olympic Games, often seen as a celebration of sports, are increasingly viewed by some as catalysts for inequality and environmental degradation, stirring up community opposition like that witnessed in this recent demonstration.