Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sharply criticised protesters against the 2026 Winter Olympics, calling them ‘enemies of the country.’ At the same time, she thanked thousands of Italians for their dedicated work, which ensures the proper organisation of the Games and shapes the positive image of the state, Sport Bet reports.
‘Unfortunately, there are also those who are enemies of the country and Italians. With their protests and their broadcast around the world, they are trying to discredit the Olympic Games. There are even those who resort to sabotage and cut railway cables, disrupting rail transport,’ the prime minister wrote on her Instagram.
The IOC has also joined in criticising the protests against the Olympics and their participants. The Committee stated that there is no place for violence at sporting events.
Clashes took place in Milan, during which the police even had to use tear gas and water cannons against the protesters. The situation was complicated by sabotage on the railway near Bologna, which caused major disruptions to transport links. The 2026 Winter Olympics will last until 22 February.
As previously reported, Italy is preparing to host the Olympic flame for the fourth time.
