Olympic Games Milan–Cortina: Sport, Fans and the Slovenian House as Slovenia in Miniature
The host and Blaž Perko. | Author Government Communication Office
Fans as the Invisible Energy of Athletes
At the Winter Olympic Games, Slovenia is expected to be represented by around 38 female and male athletes across six sports disciplines. According to team leader Blaž Perko, expectations are high, particularly in ski jumping, where the Slovenian team has been achieving top results this season. Competitions will begin in the very first days after the opening ceremony, meaning Slovenian athletes will quickly be in contention for the highest places.
One of the advantages of this year’s Games is their proximity to Slovenia, allowing many fans to support the athletes in person. »Fans provide that invisible extra energy which athletes can truly feel,« Perko emphasised, adding that home support can be a decisive factor in the fight for medals.
The Slovenian House – A Hub for Connection and Promotion
Milan–Cortina will be the first Winter Olympic Games with markedly dispersed venues, posing a major logistical challenge. Nevertheless, the Slovenian team believes that the organisation will ensure optimal conditions for athletes at all venues. An important part of Slovenia’s Olympic presence will also be the Slovenian House in Cortina d’Ampezzo. OKS Managing Director Matic Švab highlighted that the House will be open to the public and will serve as a meeting point for sport, business, tourism, culture and diplomacy. Under the I feel Slovenia brand, it will present Slovenia in miniature and provide a space for events, meetings and cheering.
The host and Matic Švab. | Author Government Communication Office
Athletes as Slovenia’s Best Ambassadors
The Slovenian House will host numerous delegations, business events and visits by distinguished guests, with a special role played by the House’s ambassador, Tina Maze. The Olympic Games thus represent not only an opportunity for sporting success, but also a chance to further strengthen Slovenia’s international visibility.
The episode is available on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia (in Slovene with english subtitles).