The upcoming Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Milan Cortina 2026 are set to engage 18,000 volunteers hailing from 98 countries, showcasing a diverse cohort eager to participate. Notably, 46% of these volunteers are under the age of 35, while 15% are over 60, reflecting a broad range of age demographics among the participants.

Irene Marcatto, the Head of the Volunteers Programme, highlighted the incredible response to the call for volunteers, with 10,000 applications received within the first 48 hours of opening in 2024. Approximately 35,000 selection meetings were conducted, illustrating the significant interest and commitment to being a part of this global event. Marcatto elaborated on the transformative experience for volunteers, likening it to a condensed Erasmus journey, emphasizing the importance of interaction and cultural exchange during the event.

Of the total volunteers, 6,000 will be actively engaged each day, with 2,000 individuals traveling from abroad to join in the festivities. This team's experiences are not just about aiding the Games, but also about personal growth and storytelling, as they view this involvement as an opportunity for redemption and life-changing encounters. The success of this program underscores the global appeal of the Olympic spirit and the power of community action.