Milan-Cortina 2026 is underway, with a flurry of action across multiple events today, February 7th. Italy has enjoyed early success, highlighted by Francesca Lollobrigida‘s stunning, record-breaking gold medal in the 3000m speed skating competition-the nation’s first of these Games-and a strong showing in luge.However, the games have also seen challenges, including a doping suspension appeal from biathlete Rebecca Passler, as detailed in the updates below.
Italy Strong in Luge, Fischnaller Third After First Runs
Table of Contents
- Italy Strong in Luge, Fischnaller Third After First Runs
- Biathlete Passler Appeals Doping Suspension
- Lollobrigida Shatters Olympic Record, Wins Gold!
- Olympic Record Falls: Lollobrigida’s Dominant Performance
- Sweden Overpowers Italy in Women’s Hockey
- Brignone Named to Italian Downhill Squad
- Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Falls to Sweden
- Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Narrows Gap Against Sweden
- Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Struggles Against Sweden
The Italian luge team got off to a fantastic start today, with Dominik Fischnaller currently sitting in third place and Leon Felderer in fifth after the first two runs. The competition concludes Sunday with the final two runs scheduled for 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM local time, where the medals will be decided. Italy is well-positioned to secure at least one medal in the event.
Biathlete Passler Appeals Doping Suspension
The Court of Arbitration for Sport has confirmed an appeal filed by Italian biathlete Rebecca Passler against Nado Italia Antidoping, the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada), the Italian Winter Sports Federation, the International Olympic Committee (CIO), the International Testing Agency (ITA), the International Biathlon Union (IBU), and the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI). The appeal challenges a provisional suspension following an out-of-competition doping control.
“Ms. Passler was provisionally suspended by Nado Italia on February 2, 2026, following an adverse analytical finding for Letrozole, a prohibited substance on the Wada Prohibited List (S4.1 Hormonal and Metabolic Modulators).” according to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. “Filed on February 6, 2026, Ms. Passler requests that the CAS annul the suspension for lack of intent and negligence and allow her to participate in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina (OWG 2026). The appeal argues that the AAF constitutes a case of contamination, without any fault on the part of the athlete. A hearing in this procedure is scheduled for February 10, 2026.”
Lollobrigida Shatters Olympic Record, Wins Gold!
What a birthday performance! Francesca Lollobrigida delivered a stunning race to claim gold and set a new Olympic record in the 3000-meter speed skating event. Celebrations erupted after the race as Lollobrigida secured Italy’s first gold medal of the Games.
Olympic Record Falls: Lollobrigida’s Dominant Performance
Francesca Lollobrigida celebrated her birthday in style, smashing the Olympic record with a time of 3:54.28.
Sweden Overpowers Italy in Women’s Hockey
The Italian women’s hockey team suffered a tough defeat today, falling 6-1 to Sweden. This loss comes after an opening-game victory against France, highlighting the challenges of competing against top-tier opponents in the tournament.
Brignone Named to Italian Downhill Squad
“Following the second timed downhill training run, which concluded with Elena Curtoni as the 23rd skier despite the jury allowing the remaining competitors to run on a shortened course, the technical staff has announced the quartet for Sunday’s medal race (11:30 AM). The team consists of Federica Brignone, Nicol Delago, Sofia Goggia, and Laura Pirovano,” the Italian Winter Sports Federation announced. Federica Brignone will compete in the women’s downhill event on Sunday.
Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Falls to Sweden
Sweden scored 3 points in the seventh end to take a commanding 9-4 lead, securing the victory over Italy. It was a disappointing result for the Italian duo.
Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Narrows Gap Against Sweden
Italy is closing in on Sweden, now trailing 6-4. A positive end for the Italian pair.
Mixed Doubles Curling: Italy Struggles Against Sweden
Italy now trails 6-2, facing a tough challenge against the Swedish team of Constantini and Mosaner.
