Swiss Star Sets the Pace at Milano Cortina 2026
The Olympic Games in Italy delivered instant drama on day one as Swiss skier Franjo von Allmen stormed to gold in the men’s downhill. Racing down the fearsome Stelvio course at speeds reaching 145km/h, the reigning world champion clocked a blistering time of 1 minute 51.61 seconds. As a result, von Allmen secured one of the first gold medals of Milano Cortina 2026 and immediately stamped his authority on the Winter Games. Moreover, his performance electrified the packed tribunes lining one of the toughest tracks in alpine skiing.
A Run Built on Speed and Control
Von Allmen attacked the course from the opening gate and carried aggressive speed through the upper sections. Furthermore, he launched more than 50 metres off one major jump, drawing audible gasps from the crowd gathered around the finish area. The 24-year-old maintained clean lines through the lower sectors and protected his advantage under immense pressure. Consequently, he crossed the line in first place and collapsed into the leader’s chair clutching his face in relief.
“At the moment it feels like a movie,” von Allmen said afterward. “My secret is to enjoy skiing. I was really relaxed in the morning and tried to keep the good feelings from training and have fun skiing.” His composure proved decisive on a course that punishes hesitation and rewards commitment.
Italian Duo Push the Swiss Champion
Italy mounted a serious challenge in front of home supporters at the Olympic Games in Italy. Giovanni Franzoni, wearing a double-digit start number, thrilled the crowd early in his run. He briefly led at the third interval, prompting chants of “Giovanni” from thousands of Italian fans. However, the 24-year-old lost precious time in the demanding bottom half of the Stelvio. Ultimately, Franzoni finished just 0.20 seconds behind von Allmen to claim silver.
Shortly afterward, veteran Dominik Paris delivered a polished performance on a course where he owns seven World Cup victories. The 36-year-old attacked with experience and precision, yet he trailed by 0.50 seconds at the finish. Nevertheless, Paris celebrated his first Olympic medal, securing bronze for Italy in front of an emotional home crowd.
Odermatt Misses the Podium
Pre-race favorite Marco Odermatt, von Allmen’s Swiss teammate, entered the event with high expectations. However, he could only manage fourth place despite a strong middle section. Therefore, the spotlight remained firmly on von Allmen, whose fearless style and aerodynamic crouch allowed him to dominate the day’s headline event.
Swiss Legacy Continues
Von Allmen’s victory carries historical weight for Switzerland. With this triumph, he became the fifth Swiss Olympic downhill champion since 1948. He joins an elite list that includes Beat Feuz, Didier Defago, Pirmin Zurbriggen, and Bernhard Russi. Additionally, the win reinforces Swiss dominance following last year’s world championship success in Saalbach, Austria. As a result, Switzerland now enters the upcoming team combined event with renewed confidence.
Five Gold Medals Awarded on Day One
By the end of the first day at the Olympic Games in Italy, five gold medals had been decided. Italy celebrated another triumph as Francesca Lollobrigida captured gold in the women’s 3,000-meter speed skating event. Meanwhile, Japan’s Kira Kimura soared to victory in the men’s snowboard big air competition. Norway’s Anna Odine Stroem claimed the women’s normal hill ski jumping title, while Sweden’s Frida Karlsson powered to gold in the women’s cross-country skiathlon. Consequently, the Games opened with a truly global medal spread.
Momentum Builds Across the Winter Games
The action continues tomorrow with the Olympic team combined event before attention shifts to the super-G later in the week. Furthermore, athletes from powerhouse nations including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Australia prepare to chase their own medal ambitions in the coming days. As a result, competition will intensify across every snow and ice discipline.
A Thrilling Start in Italy
Ultimately, von Allmen’s gold medal set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable Winter Olympics. His fearless descent down the Stelvio showcased both athletic precision and emotional resilience. Moreover, the electric atmosphere in Italy confirmed that these Games will deliver high drama from start to finish. The Olympic Games in Italy have only just begun, yet day one has already provided a defining moment that will echo throughout Milano Cortina 2026.
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