Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo are promising an Italian Olympics packed with style and elan after winning the right to stage the 2026 Winter Games on Monday.
Milan earned 47 votes from the International Olympic Committee membership, compared to Stockholm's 34, prompting loud celebrations from the bid team, which had earlier included Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.
"Italy, the future and sport have won," Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said back in Italy.
"Thanks to those who believed in it right away, especially in the Municipalities and Regions, and a pity for those who gave up.
"There will be at least five billion (euros) in added value, 20,000 jobs, as well as many new roads and sports facilities. With the Winter Olympics we will confirm our excellence and our skills to the world."
Milan and Stockholm were the only candidates left after four other cities - Switzerland's Sion, Japan's Sapporo, Austria's Graz and 1988 hosts Calgary in Canada - had dropped out of the race with concerns over the size and cost of the event.
Turkey's Erzurum was cut by the IOC.
"Congratulations to Milan-Cortina. We can look forward to outstanding and sustainable Olympic Winter Games in a traditional winter sports country," IOC President Thomas Bach said after announcing the winner.
"We will contribute to the success of these Games 925 million dollars. This will greatly facilitate the preparations and will be an important part of a great partnership we will enjoy with Cortina and Milan."
