MILAN (AP) – A tragic incident occurred at a construction site near the 2026 Winter Olympic venue in Cortina d'Ampezzo, where a guard tragically lost his life during a frigid overnight shift. This unfortunate event has drawn attention from Italian authorities, who have vowed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the worker's passing.
According to Italian media reports, the incident occurred on January 8, while the 55-year-old worker was on duty at a construction site located near the ice arena in Cortina. The night was marked by dangerously low temperatures, plummeting to minus 12 degrees Celsius (10.4 degrees Fahrenheit), which may have contributed to the worker's untimely death.
Matteo Salvini, Italy's Infrastructure Minister, has explicitly called for a thorough investigation to determine the factors leading to this tragic occurrence. The incident has raised significant concerns about worker safety, especially in the context of the upcoming Winter Olympics scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026.
It is important to note that the construction site where the worker died is not overseen by Simico, the governmental company responsible for Olympic infrastructure projects. Simico has expressed its condolences in a statement, emphasizing the need for a focused investigation to ensure the safety of all workers involved in Olympic preparations.
Cortina city officials have expressed their deep sorrow and concern regarding the worker’s death. They highlighted the emotional impact this incident has had on the community, which is preparing to host international visitors and athletes for the Winter Olympics in just a few weeks. The events that will take place in Cortina during the Olympics include curling, sliding, and women’s Alpine skiing, drawing attention to the glamorous yet rigorous demands of Olympic-level preparations.
The situation has sparked a wider conversation about labor conditions and worker protections in the construction industry, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Local authorities are being urged to take immediate action to ensure that all workers are equipped with the necessary resources and safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the countdown to the Winter Olympics continues, the focus remains on not just the excitement of the games but also the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the preparation.
This incident is a poignant reminder of the human element behind major sporting events and raises questions about the safeguards in place for those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. As Italy prepares for its landmark role in the Winter Olympics, it faces the pressing need to address worker safety and health standards moving forward.
