Protests erupted in Milan, Italy, shortly after the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics, where approximately 10,000 demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition to what they deemed an "unsustainable" Olympic event. The protest escalated into clashes with the police, who were met with stones and fireworks thrown by some rioters. In response to the violence, law enforcement deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd, highlighting the tensions surrounding the global sporting event and its implications for urban policies and public spending.

Additionally, the unrest in Milan coincided with incidents of sabotage targeting rail infrastructure near Bologna and Pesaro, which further complicated the situation. Authorities reported damage to essential cables on the Bologna-Venice line and an arson attack on a rail traction substation. This disruption not only affected high-speed travel but also highlighted broader concerns about public safety and protest impacts during major events like the Olympics.

These protests underscore a growing movement against large-scale sporting events that local communities argue prioritize business interests over environmental concerns and the welfare of residents. As the Olympics continue, the attention will likely remain fixed on how the Italian government manages both security and public dissent in the face of international scrutiny.