Olympic travel planning requires flexibility, vigilance and preparation

Safety issues and the presence of ICE personnel

Industry analysts characterize the overall security environment as moderate to high risk, primarily due to increased visitor volumes, urban congestion and elevated cybersecurity concerns. However, the likelihood of major violent incidents remains low, with authorities implementing extensive preventative measures.

Looking at safety issues, the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics generated controversies -particularly in Milan.

However, both Italian and US authorities have clarified ICE presence. They have no operational policing role in Italy. They for example cannot carry out arrests or immigration enforcement and will not patrol venues or public areas. Meanwhile, they will mainly work from U.S. diplomatic missions or coordination centers. ICE mission is limited to intelligence sharing and analytical support, information exchange with Italian security agencies and monitoring transnational crime risks (e.g., trafficking, cyber threats).

According to Riskline, the presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel accompanying the American Olympic delegation is likely to ignite protests with demonstrations anticipated in major cities.

In further evaluation, urban destinations such as Milan, Verona and Cortina d’Ampezzo already report moderate levels of property crime, and tourism professionals are advising clients to anticipate heightened exposure to pickpocketing, scams and crowd-related disruptions, particularly at flagship venues including San Siro Stadium and the Verona Arena.

Italian authorities plan to deploy enhanced security measures, including increased police presence, controlled access zones and rigorous screening procedures at venues and transportation hubs. Security protocols are expected to be especially strict during the opening ceremony in Milan and closing events in Verona. Emergency response teams will remain on heightened alert, though travel planners should account for potentially longer response times in smaller alpine communities with limited infrastructure.

Transportation under pressure

Transportation capacity will be a critical operational focus. Key gateways such as Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate and Venice Marco Polo airports are preparing for heavy passenger flows, longer security procedures and potential delays.

Rail routes serving mountain destinations may face congestion, while winter weather conditions could affect schedules despite expanded shuttle services. Major alpine roads, including those leading to Cortina and Bormio, may encounter snow or ice-related disruptions, underscoring the importance of contingency planning.

Alpine competition areas — including Bormio, Livigno, Predazzo, Tesero and Anterselva — are meanwhile expected to experience bottlenecks at shuttle services, ski lifts and parking facilities during peak periods.

Cybersecurity remains a growing concern for travel stakeholders, as large-scale international events often attract phishing campaigns, fraudulent booking platforms and malicious public Wi-Fi networks. Industry experts recommend promoting verified digital tools and educating travelers on secure online practices.

Travel advisors and corporate travel managers are encouraging clients to maintain flexible itineraries, purchase comprehensive insurance coverage and monitor official Olympic communications and local advisories. Risk intelligence providers such as Riskline are supporting the sector with real-time monitoring, pre-travel briefings and operational alerts designed to help organizations mitigate disruption and maintain traveler safety throughout the Games.