February 2026

It has already been 50 years since Innsbruck hosted the 1976 Winter Olympic Games. How did the City use this anniversary to activate its Olympic legacy?

As the City of Innsbruck, the “home of sport”, we marked the anniversary with a festive programme bringing together heroes of the past and today’s athletes. Political dialogue, youth ski events, exhibitions and special media formats showed that our mountains are not just a beautiful backdrop, but an invitation to be active.
 
What are the main legacies inherited from the 1976 Games that show how Olympic Games can act as a gamechanger in host cities?

The Olympic Games 1964 and 1976 were milestones that shaped Innsbruck’s global reputation as a sports city. They created lasting infrastructure and, more importantly, a living sports culture at the intersection of elite sport and recreational sport.
 
Have you connected the celebrations of Innsbruck 1976 anniversary with the Games taking place in Milano Cortina and / or with the upcoming celebrations of the 50^th anniversary of Montreal 1976 Summer Olympic Games?

Yes. Innsbruck positioned its anniversary within the wider Olympic movement, linking past experiences with the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games and reflecting on shared legacy paths with Montreal 1976.
 
It is the second time that Innsbruck is celebrating the 50^th anniversary of Olympic Games, after 2014. What were the lessons learnt and legacy from the previous celebrations?

The key takeaway was to move beyond nostalgia. In 2026, the focus was clearly on participation, youth and everyday sport – showing that Innsbruck stands for real sports culture, not just one-off events.
 
As the red curtain has just fallen on the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games, what is your analysis of the evolution of Winter Olympic Games, from Innsbruck to Milano Cortina, and for the upcoming editions?

Winter Games have shifted towards sustainability, regional cooperation and reuse of venues. Innsbruck proves that smaller cities with strong know-how can host major events – and deliver long-term value.
 
What are your expectations regarding the World Union of Olympic Cities and what message would you like to share with Olympic Cities & Olympic legacy stakeholders?

The World Union of Olympic Cities is key for exchanging knowledge and responsibility. Our message: Innsbruck can do sports events – but even more, we stand for legacy, authenticity and active sports.