Kirsty Coventry, the newly elected president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has emphasised the need for the organisation to enhance its commitment to combating climate change. This call to action follows the delivery of a petition signed by over 21,000 individuals, including numerous athletes, demanding an end to sponsorship deals with fossil fuel companies during the Winter Olympics. The petition arrives at a critical time, as Italy’s Eni, one of the largest oil corporations globally, is a primary partner for the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Growing Concerns Over Climate Change
The petition reflects mounting concerns regarding the sustainability of hosting Winter Olympic Games in the future, as climate change continues to threaten the viability of potential host nations. Coventry expressed her appreciation for athletes voicing their opinions, stating, “It’s really nice athletes have a platform to speak up.” She acknowledged the IOC’s ongoing discussions to improve its approach to sustainability but cautioned that meaningful change requires time and collaboration among various stakeholders.
Christophe Dubi, IOC Executive Director for the Olympic Games, echoed Coventry’s sentiments, recognising the climate crisis as a universal challenge. He reaffirmed the IOC’s commitment to sustainability, insisting that the organisation must lead by example. “What we have to do as an organisation is to be at the forefront of sustainability, and our principles are very clear,” Dubi asserted.
A New Model for the Olympics
In a bid to address these environmental concerns, the IOC is exploring a new model for the Games that utilises existing facilities across broader geographic areas. Coventry highlighted that the Milan-Cortina Games will serve as a crucial test for this approach, which aims to reduce the need for new construction and minimise the carbon footprint associated with hosting the Olympics.
This year’s Winter Games will take place across three hubs in northern Italy: Milan, Cortina, and Livigno. Only two new sporting venues have been constructed for the event—the Santagiulia ice hockey arena and the Cortina Sliding Centre. Looking ahead, the next Winter Olympics, scheduled for the French Alps in 2030 and Utah in 2034, will also adopt a similar strategy, with diverse locations for events. The 2032 Summer Olympics in Brisbane will further this trend by featuring venues across Queensland.
However, the decision to decentralise the Games has not come without challenges. Organisers in Brisbane have indicated that they will exceed the originally projected budget of £3.6 billion due to the complexities associated with a broader event footprint. Coventry acknowledged the learning curve, stating, “We are really experiencing a spread out Games here for the first time – we are going to learn a lot.”
The Opening Ceremony and Respect for All Nations
As the curling events commenced on Wednesday, the official opening ceremony for the 2026 Winter Olympics is scheduled for Friday. Coventry expressed hope that the ceremony would promote an atmosphere of respect among nations, particularly in light of criticism regarding the presence of U.S. ICE agents in Milan. “I hope the opening ceremony is seen by everyone as a chance to be respectful,” she remarked, reflecting on the spirit of unity that the Games should embody.
Why it Matters
The IOC’s response to climate change and the growing public outcry against fossil fuel sponsorships reveals a critical juncture for the organisation. As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, the decisions made by the IOC will not only shape the future of the Olympic Games but also set a precedent for how major sporting events can contribute to environmental sustainability. The actions taken today will resonate far beyond the Games, influencing global attitudes toward corporate sponsorships and the responsibilities of large organisations in combating climate change.
