The mascots of the 2026 Winter Olympics were not created by professional designers, but by Italian school students through a national competition. More than 1,600 student groups participated, and the winning idea came from a school in Calabria. Professional artists later improved the design, but the original creativity belonged to the students.
The mascots are Tina and Milo, two stoats, small and agile animals that live in cold climates. They were chosen because they symbolize winter and adaptability. Tina represents the Olympic Games and is inspired by Cortina. She is energetic, curious, and creative, combining mountain traditions with modern city life. She reflects Italy’s culture, fashion, and artistic spirit.
Milo represents the Paralympic Games and is inspired by Milan. He was born without a leg, but he learned to move using his tail. His story shows that challenges can become strengths. His motto explains that obstacles can help people grow.Alongside them are the Flo, six small snowdrop characters that represent hope, teamwork, and inclusion. Snowdrops are among the first flowers to bloom in winter, symbolizing renewal.
Together, Tina, Milo, and the Flo are more than mascots. They represent creativity, resilience, and community, becoming the emotional heart of Milano Cortina 2026.
Vocabulary:
• mascot (noun): a character that represents an event or team and brings positive emotions
• agile (adj): able to move quickly and easily
• symbolize (verb): to represent an idea or meaning
• resilience (noun): the ability to stay strong after difficulties
• determined (adj): not giving up easilyadapt (verb): to change in order to fit a new situation
• ambassador (noun): a person or character that represents something publicly
• obstacle (noun): something that makes progress difficult
• inclusion (noun): the act of making everyone feel accepted
• refine (verb): to improve something by making small changes
Source: Knowledge pill