The 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games have faced an early setback as some athletes have reported problems with their Olympic medals. Specifically, the ribbons that allow medallists to wear their accomplishments around their necks have shown a concerning tendency to detach easily. This situation has raised eyebrows considering that the Olympic Games have been around for over a century, prompting questions about the reliability of such a significant symbol of achievement.

Breezy Johnson, who claimed gold in women's downhill alpine skiing, publicly demonstrated one such incident during a media briefing, showcasing her broken medal ribbon to reporters. Johnson’s demonstration highlights the tangible frustration athletes have with the situation, as they expect their medals to symbolize their hard work and commitment. The premature failure of the ribbons could overshadow the athletes' achievements and the overall spirit of the competition, especially so early in the event.

Organizers for the event are now in urgent discussions to address these flaws, striving to avoid any further embarrassment as the games progress. The pressure is on to ensure that athletes receive the recognition they deserve without experiencing the frustration stemming from these faulty accessories. With the Olympics having a history of excellence and achievement, this incident has sparked discussions about the quality control measures in place for such high-profile events.