GENEVA, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Research shows that most Italians are proud to host the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games and see the Olympic Games as a powerful force for unity, inclusion, and social change, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Tuesday.
The research, commissioned by Coca-Cola Italy and conducted by SWG, revealed that 84 percent of Italians believe Olympic values can promote social inclusion and help make sport a driver of change, according to the IOC.
Earlier research conducted by the IOC demonstrated that around five billion people followed the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and Olympic athletes. Approximately 78 percent of respondents believe the Olympic Games are more important than ever in today's world, and 75 percent said the IOC successfully brought the world together in peaceful competition in Paris.
IOC President Thomas Bach said, "This research confirms once again that the Olympic values of respect, friendship, and excellence have the power to unite and inspire people across generations and communities and resonate in particular with young audiences."
"With just one year to go until Milano Cortina 2026, we are thrilled to see the excitement building in Italy and the strong belief in the power of the Games to bring people together and drive positive change," Bach added.
The survey indicates that 62 percent of Italians feel proud to host Milano Cortina 2026, while 59 percent of respondents recognize that the event can strengthen the country's sense of unity.
According to the study, eight out of 10 Italians say they cheer for values such as respect, solidarity, and perseverance, reinforcing the idea that the Olympic Games can play a crucial role in building a more inclusive society. ■
