Constantini And Mosaner Begin Olympic Title Defense In Milan

The anticipation in Italy is reaching fever pitch as the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics draw ever closer. With the opening ceremony just around the corner on February 6, 2026, the Olympic spirit is already alive and well in the host country. Yet, for fans of curling and Italian sport, the real action kicks off even before the official festivities begin. On February 5, 2026, Italy’s golden duo, Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner, will step onto the ice at Cortina d’Ampezzo’s storied Stadio del Ghiaccio, ready to defend the Olympic title they so memorably captured in Beijing four years ago.

It’s a moment that curling fans across Italy—and indeed the world—have been waiting for. The formidable pair of Constantini and Mosaner are not just Olympic champions; they’re undefeated at the highest level, having swept through the 2022 Beijing Games and the 2025 World Championships in Canada without a single loss. Their chemistry, skill, and nerves of steel have made them the team to beat in mixed doubles curling, and expectations are sky-high as they prepare to launch their title defense on home ice.

Their first challenge? A tricky match against South Korea, scheduled for 10:05 AM local time on February 5. The Korean duo of Kim Seonyeong and Jeong Yeongseok are no pushovers—they’re widely respected for their tactical prowess and resilience under pressure. Interestingly, South Korea will have already had a taste of Olympic ice by then, making their debut the evening before against Sweden in what promises to be a tightly contested opening round. Will that head start give them an edge, or will Italy’s champions prove too strong from the outset?

“We’re excited to play in front of our home fans and to defend the title together,” Constantini said ahead of the tournament, echoing the sentiments of curling enthusiasts across the country. The Italian duo’s success has not only elevated their own profiles but has also sparked a surge of interest in curling throughout Italy—a country more traditionally known for its prowess on the soccer pitch and ski slopes. Their Olympic gold in Beijing was nothing short of historic, and their unbeaten run at the 2025 World Championships in Canada only solidified their status as world-beaters.

The format of the mixed doubles curling tournament adds another layer of intrigue. Ten teams from across the globe will compete in a round robin, each facing the other nine teams to establish the overall standings. Only the top four teams will advance to the knockout phase, which features two semifinals—first versus fourth, and second versus third—before the medal matches decide who ascends the Olympic podium. With such a competitive field, every game counts, and early slip-ups can prove costly.

The opening day of the curling competition is already set to be a spectacle. On the evening of February 4, the first four matches of the mixed doubles event will light up the Ice Stadium in Cortina d’Ampezzo. While Constantini and Mosaner will sit out these initial contests, all eyes will be on their Thursday morning debut against South Korea. For Italian fans unable to make it to Cortina, there’s no shortage of ways to catch the action. The Italy vs. South Korea match will be broadcast live on RaiSportHD, with streaming options available on Rai Play, Discovery Plus, Eurosport 1, HBO Max, and DAZN. For those who prefer play-by-play updates, OA Sport will provide live text coverage throughout the tournament.

But curling isn’t the only headline act as the Olympics get underway. In a development that’s sent ripples through the winter sports world, American skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has confirmed her participation at Milano-Cortina 2026. Vonn, one of the most decorated alpine skiers of all time, will be back on the slopes, adding even more star power to an already glittering Games. Her decision to compete, despite a series of injuries in recent years, has been met with widespread excitement and admiration. “I’m thrilled to return to the Olympic stage and compete in front of such passionate fans,” Vonn stated, underscoring the international appeal of these Games.

With the opening ceremony still two days away, the early start to competition reflects a growing trend in Olympic scheduling, where certain events begin before the formal festivities. This approach not only accommodates the packed calendar but also gives athletes and fans a taste of the action right from the get-go. In the case of curling, it means that medal hopes and Olympic dreams are already on the line even before the cauldron is lit.

The significance of Constantini and Mosaner’s campaign cannot be overstated. Their 2022 triumph in Beijing marked Italy’s first-ever Olympic gold in curling, a feat that captivated the nation and inspired a new generation of athletes. Their continued dominance on the world stage has kept the momentum going, with their unbeaten record at the 2025 Canadian World Championships serving as a powerful statement of intent. As they prepare to face South Korea, the pressure is immense—but so is the support from fans eager to see history repeat itself on home soil.

South Korea, for their part, aren’t just making up the numbers. Their mixed doubles team has shown flashes of brilliance on the international circuit, and their early match against Sweden could provide valuable momentum heading into the showdown with Italy. In a round robin format where every point matters, the Koreans will be determined to make a strong impression and spoil the Italian party.

The broader context of these Olympics adds an extra layer of excitement. Milano-Cortina 2026 is the first Winter Games hosted by Italy since Turin 2006, and the sense of national pride is palpable. From the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites to the bustling streets of Milan, the country is ready to celebrate its sporting heroes and welcome the world. The early start to competition—combined with the return of global icons like Lindsey Vonn—ensures that these Games will be remembered for both their drama and their spectacle.

As the clock ticks down to Constantini and Mosaner’s opening match, anticipation is building. Can Italy’s champions maintain their unbeaten run and defend their Olympic crown? Or will South Korea spring a surprise and shake up the standings from the very start? With so much at stake and the world watching, one thing’s for sure: the road to Olympic glory begins now, and every stone thrown on the ice could make history.

For fans across Italy and beyond, the message is clear—don’t miss a moment. Whether in the arena, on television, or following along online, the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are officially underway, and the chase for curling gold is on.