Carle Jasmin (Image: Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympic Committee)
Since the start of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, a rumor has been circulating that athletes are particularly busy, reaching record levels of sexual activity. According to a report from the Olympic Committee, in just two days, 10,000 condoms disappeared.
Organizers under scrutiny
The report also criticized the Olympic organizers, suggesting they were “not particularly generous with the numbers.” For comparison, during the Paris Summer Olympics, approximately 300,000 condoms were distributed, roughly two per athlete per day. At these Winter Games, however, the reported number was significantly lower: fewer than 10,000 in total.
It is important to put into context the claim that the Milan Olympics have become an international “sextravaganza.”
Record international participation
For the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, more than 90 countries are represented by their delegations. According to official data, 93 countries are expected to send competing athletes, making it one of the largest gatherings of nations for any Winter Games.
Rich and less wealthy countries
Not all participating countries are wealthy. While the majority are developed nations with winter sports infrastructure—such as Canada, Norway, Switzerland, or Japan—several less wealthy countries or those with little winter sports tradition are also participating. Examples include delegations from Kenya, Ghana, or Morocco, which have limited resources and few facilities for ice and snow sports.
Condom accessibility across countries
Condom accessibility varies greatly among participating countries. In most developed and wealthy nations, such as Canada, Norway, or Japan, condoms are readily available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and even free at certain clinics or public health programs.
In contrast, in several low-income countries or where sexual education is limited, access can be very restricted. This may be due to economic, cultural, or religious factors: condoms may be scarce, expensive, or stigmatized. For many athletes from these countries, the availability of condoms at the Olympic Games often represents one of the few opportunities to obtain them easily and for free.
Observed behaviors and reactions
Observers have seen individuals in distribution areas filling their backpacks with condoms, and it is entirely understandable to witness such behavior when people come from countries with limited access to condoms or when the athlete’s financial resources do not allow easy access. This was a predictable situation, and the organizing committee was simply caught by surprise.
Athletes’ responsibility regarding STIs and HIV
This situation nonetheless demonstrates the sense of responsibility of athletes regarding STIs and HIV, highlighting their commitment to protect themselves and their partners. Even though the organizing committee was surprised by the scale of demand, these actions reflect an important awareness of sexual health and prevention, which extends well beyond national borders and available resources.
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