IOC faces backlash over gender testing policies and athlete protests at Paris Olympics, amid ongoing debates on fairness and politics.
Protests in Iran, initially over economic hardship, have grown into a major challenge to the Shiite theocracy. Authorities have responded with mass arrests, internet shutdowns, and deadly force, killing thousands. The unrest marks Iran's most serious threat to its regime in nearly five decades.
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics village opened this week, housing about 1,400 athletes and team members in Cortina and Milan. The village features trailers, recreational facilities, and social spaces, with athletes from around the world arriving ahead of the Games, which start February 6.
Protesters in Milan demonstrated against the presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at the Winter Olympics, calling for their removal amid concerns over US immigration policies. US officials assured the agents will operate only within diplomatic missions, but protests and political criticism persist.
Finland's women's hockey game against Canada was postponed to February 12 after a norovirus outbreak left 13 players in quarantine. Switzerland's team also faces isolation after one player tested positive. The outbreaks have disrupted scheduled matches, raising health concerns at the Winter Olympics.
During the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, protests and booing occurred during the opening ceremony. US Vice President JD Vance was jeered on screen, linked to US immigration policies. Israeli athletes faced hostility, reflecting regional tensions and political disputes.
On the first full day of the Winter Olympics in Milan, protests against the Games turned violent, with clashes between police and demonstrators. Sabotage of railway infrastructure caused delays, and protests also targeted Israel and US immigration policies. Authorities launched a terrorism investigation into the railway sabotage.
Flag football is rapidly expanding in popularity, backed by the NFL, NCAA, and IOC. It is progressing through NCAA programs, gaining Olympic recognition, and promoting inclusivity, especially for women and youth, amid a broader cultural shift towards contactless sports.
Swedish skier Elis Lundholm, who was assigned female at birth and identifies as male, competed in women's moguls at the Milano Cortina Games. NBC misgendered him during coverage, but he remains the first openly transgender athlete at a Winter Olympics, competing under IOC rules. He finished 25th.
Canada has expanded its gun control measures following recent mass shootings, including a ban on over 2,500 assault-style firearms, a gun buyback program, and a handgun freeze. The government aims to reduce gun violence through comprehensive reforms, with ongoing legal settlements related to a 2022 attack in Buffalo, New York.
Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified from the Milano Cortina Olympics after refusing to remove a helmet bearing images of Ukrainian war victims. The IOC cited non-compliance with athlete expression guidelines, despite Heraskevych's intent to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The decision highlights ongoing tensions over political expression at the Games.
A video at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics shows a staff member shouting 'Free Palestine' at Israeli fans, leading to police involvement and the employee's removal. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and antisemitic behavior during the Games.
During the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Swiss commentator Stefan Reina criticized Israeli athlete AJ Edelman for social media posts supporting Israel's Gaza military campaign. RTS removed the segment, prompting responses from Edelman and Israeli officials, raising questions about neutrality and political expression at the Games.
Retired boxing icons Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather are tentatively scheduled to face off in an exhibition match on April 25 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking boxing’s return to the country. Meanwhile, Manny Pacquiao plans a comeback fight in Las Vegas after his recent draw with Mario Barrios.
Rising temperatures due to climate change are affecting the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo, with athletes facing poor snow conditions and safety concerns. The IPC is considering moving the Games earlier to ensure better conditions, amid ongoing climate impacts.
Ukrainian skeleton athlete Heraskevych was prevented from competing at the Milan Cortina Games for wearing a helmet honoring war victims. He spoke at the UN about sports' role in promoting values and hope amid conflict, despite federation restrictions.
Sir Craig Reedie, a key figure in Olympic sports and anti-doping efforts, has died at age 74. He played vital roles in London 2012, WADA leadership during Russia’s doping scandal, and promoting sports exchanges on the Korean Peninsula. The IOC will honor his legacy with a flag at half-mast.