The Mediolanum Forum arena in Milan is set to host the figure skating competitions for the 2026 Winter Olympics, a venue that holds fond memories for the Lithuanian sports community. Known especially to the Kaunas ‘Žalgiris’ basketball fans, the arena has been the site of numerous crucial victories, including the memorable EuroLeague match where Žalgiris overcame a 27-point deficit against the local team, Olimpia, achieving an 85-82 win. This not only showcases the competitive spirit of Lithuanian sports teams but also the emotional connection of the fans to the venue.

Since December of last year, the arena has undergone renovations in preparation for the upcoming Olympic games, stepping aside from its basketball roots to accommodate figure skating. Opened in 1990 and having a capacity of over 12,000, the venue has previously hosted significant events, including the 2018 World Championships in figure skating, further cementing its importance within the sporting community.

For the Lithuanian figure skating pair, A.Reed and S.Ambrulevičius, competing at the Mediolanum Forum stirs sentimentality as it connects them to both their national pride and personal memories, indicating how the past and present intertwine in the realm of sports. The arena’s storied history as a competitive ground adds layers to their Olympic aspirations and symbolizes hopes for success in the forthcoming international stages.