A protest occurred in Verona, Italy, just hours before the closing ceremony of the 2026 Olympics, with demonstrators voicing concerns over the financial and environmental impact of the Games.
In Verona, Italy, a protest took place a few hours prior to the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics, drawing a few hundred demonstrators. They gathered 500 meters from the arena, where the ceremony was to be held, as police had secured the area in anticipation of numerous dignitaries attending. Protesters expressed their discontent about the Olympics through various slogans, particularly highlighting the economic and ecological burdens that the Games place on the country.
The demonstration was fueled by criticisms surrounding the staggering cost of hosting the Olympics, which has reached 5.2 billion euros. This figure includes 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure developments and 1.7 billion euros directly associated with the Games. Many deemed the financial expenditure excessive, particularly in light of Italy’s ongoing economic challenges and the environmental impact associated with such a large-scale event.
The protest underscores a broader sentiment among segments of the Italian population who are questioning the benefits of hosting the Olympics, particularly in terms of long-term economic viability and environmental sustainability. As major sporting events face increasing scrutiny worldwide regarding their impact on host cities, Verona's demonstration is part of a larger conversation about the responsibility and legacy of the Olympic Games.
