On the first day of the Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy, the event was marred by a series of protests against its environmental and economic ramifications. The protests, organized by leftist unions and organizations, included a march through various parts of the city, including the newly inaugurated Olympic Village. However, tensions escalated as some protesters, masked and aggressive, hurled stones and flares at police forces.

The police responded with water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds, leading to serious clashes in which dozens of people were arrested. The protests reflect a broader discontent regarding large-scale events like the Olympics, with demonstrators questioning their justification in terms of the socio-economic benefits against the costs and environmental consequences.

As the games continue, the unrest highlights the ongoing struggle between civic rights and large-scale sporting events, suggesting a growing movement that is increasingly vocal against similar future constructions. The implications of these protests could influence both public perception of the Olympics and, potentially, future event planning in Italy and beyond.