SPINDLERUV MLYN, Czechia (AP) — Sara Hector led the opening run of a women’s World Cup giant slalom Saturday, the last race in the discipline before the Swedish skier defends her Olympic title next month.

Here's everything you need to know about when the Olympics start, including the opening ceremony date, time, and schedule.

The Olympic Winter Games in Milan are scheduled to open on February 6, 2026.

Reeling in a 100-pound halibut? Aiming to outrun the world’s fastest man? Trying to become the greatest speed skater of all time? Meet Jordan Stolz, the once-in-a-lifetime athlete you need to know and may never forget.

Tina, the elder sibling with lighter-colored fur, will be the face of the Olympic Games. Born in the Italian mountains but living in the city, she is a creative soul who loves art and music. Her motto is “dream big,” and she is passionate about the power of beauty and it’s ability to create change.

Davide Cerato will play a major role in skiing and snowboarding events at the upcoming Olympics, but he won’t be competing. The Italian snowmaking expert is responsible for perfecting several of the courses that will feature in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games, and he takes his job seriously.

For the first time, two cauldrons will be lit and extinguished simultaneously in two different locations for the Winter Olympics.

On the men’s side, the U.S. team will be led by three-time Olympian and 2018 slopestyle gold medalist Red Gerard, snowboard cross racer Nick Baumgartner, and 17-year-old Alessandro Barbieri, who's seen as a medal contender in halfpipe.