The article discusses the taxation policies applied to prize money awarded to medal-winning athletes at the ongoing Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics. The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) has confirmed the prize money structure remains consistent with previous Olympics, where athletes receive €180,000 for a gold medal, €90,000 for silver, and €60,000 for bronze. Currently, Italian athletes have achieved a tally of 9 golds, 5 silvers, and 12 bronzes, leading to an expected total prize pool of €2,790,000.

However, the article points out that the figures mentioned are gross amounts before taxation. The tax applies in the athlete's country of residence, which is crucial since it may not always be Italy, depending on where the athlete is officially based. This complex situation implies that while medal-winning can bring substantial financial gains, the net amount received by the athletes could significantly differ after tax deductions, especially for those residing outside of Italy.

This taxation issue adds another layer of complexity for athletes who aim for financial stability and success through their Olympic performance. As they train and compete at the highest levels, understanding the financial implications of their winnings, including tax responsibilities, becomes an essential part of their Olympic journey, ensuring they are fully informed about how much money they will ultimately retain from their victories.