FIS chief flags concerns over artificial snow for 2026 Milan-Cortina Games amid funding delays
Johan Eliasch cites delays in Italian government funding affecting snow production for Livigno venues; Livigno officials say snow operations are under way and contingency plans exist
Concerns over snow levels for the skiing events at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy have been raised by the president of the International Ski Federation (FIS), Johan Eliasch. He said the production of artificial snow has been hampered by delays in the Italian government's release of funds to organizers.
Venues in Livigno, including the Livigno Snow Park and the Aerials and Moguls Park, are expected to play a central role in February's Games.
Eliasch described the funding issues as 'inexplicable' and said the federation has a 'plan B, plan C, and plan D' in place to ensure competition conditions.
Livigno mayor Remo Galli responded to the concerns, saying the delays were caused by a technical problem and that the snow production is underway. 'We'll have all the snow we need to have a great Olympics. In fact, we'll have much more.' He added, 'It was necessary to replace a valve, but it was done within the timeframe, and all the snow guns have been operating for a few evenings.' Galli also said, 'We're doing well, for Livigno and for Italy. And in the next few days, temperatures will drop further, even to 20 below zero, so I'm not at all worried.'
The venues must produce large quantities of artificial snow to create the halfpipes and jumps for snowboarding and freestyle skiing.
Earlier this month, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly warned players will not take part in the 2026 Winter Olympics if ice quality issues are not resolved.
The comments come as organizers push to finalize infrastructure and weather-related contingencies for the Games in February. Officials say contingency plans exist and that snow production capabilities remain a central focus of preparations.