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Free contraception has been a longstanding tradition in athlete villages for years, aiming to promote safe sex and responsible health practices.
Athletes at the current games received a clear message: “Health comes first: prevention and common sense.”
Organizers at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are facing a logistical challenge after a reported shortage of condoms in the athlete village. While approximately 300,000 condoms were distributed at the 2024 Paris Summer Games – averaging two per athlete per day – only 10,000 were initially available in Milan.
“Such a quantity proved insufficient, considering the number of athletes.”
According to Italian newspaper La Stampa, one anonymous athlete reported that supplies ran out within three days.
“They promised a restock, but who knows when that will arrive,” the athlete reportedly said.
The athlete village, located in Milan-Cortina, is a temporary living complex with around 1,400 beds. Athletes are housed in modular accommodations connected by pathways to communal areas.
Privacy options within the village are reportedly limited. A so-called “relaxation area” – a shoe-free zone with subdued lighting and calming music for meditation – has gained popularity.
Meanwhile, the Canadian team has reportedly left the Olympic village and opted to stay in a five-star hotel.
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