Swedish Athletes Face Logistical Challenges at 2026 Winter Olympics Amid Absence of Central Olympic Village

Swedish athletes competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy have expressed mixed feelings over the absence of a centralized Olympic Village, highlighting significant logistical challenges and a disjointed atmosphere. The Olympic events are spread across different locations, including Cortina and Bormio, complicating travel for athletes, fans, and support staff. Johanna Hagström, a cross-country skier, lamented missing the communal experience that an Olympic Village fosters, which she valued for meeting athletes from various nations. Alpine skier Anna Swenn-Larsson also reflected on the difficulties fans face in attending scattered events.

Some athletes, like ski jumper Frida Westman, acknowledged the reasoning behind using existing venues in Italy, citing environmental sustainability efforts. Despite this, many, such as Sara Hector, found competing across separate locations hard to manage in terms of logistics. Emma Ribom compared this Olympics to her previous experience during the pandemic, pointing out the unique atmosphere an Olympic Village offers, which is now lacking. Nevertheless, there is optimism for a livelier atmosphere with larger crowds after several subdued games during the pandemic era. Erik Mobärg appreciated the sustainability focus despite the altered Olympic vibe, while Kristoffer Jakobsen remarked that the experience feels closer to a World Cup event than traditional Games with a centralized hub.

Overall, Swedish athletes hope future Winter Games restore a more unified and vibrant Olympic environment, balancing sustainability with athlete experience and fan engagement.