Sondrio,
11 December 2024 –
Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 and Valtellina Taste of Emotion, the region’s
Distretto Agroalimentare di Qualità, are strengthening their partnership ahead
of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games (6–22 February 2026) and
Paralympic Games (6–15 March 2026). The move, which builds on the foundation
laid last year, sees Valtellina Taste of Emotion step up from Official
Supporter to Sponsor, deepening its commitment to the Games.
The
agreement, which was officially signed on 6 December 2024, reinforces the
strong connection between the region and the world’s prestigious sporting
event. Through the partnership, the aim is to increase Valtellina’s global
visibility by showcasing its unique landscape, made up of jaw-dropping views framed
by the Rhaetian and Orobic Alps. Here, unspoiled nature, a rich cultural
heritage, and traditional cuisine come together with remarkable biodiversity.
The
Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 is responsible for planning, organizing,
financing, and delivering the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic
Games, in collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the
International Paralympic Committee (IPC), the Italian National Olympic
Committee (CONI), and the Italian Paralympic Committee (CIP). The Foundation,
which was founded on 9 December 2019 and is led by President Giovanni Malagò
and CEO Andrea Varnier, works closely with regional and city authorities from
Milan to Cortina, Veneto to Lombardy, and the autonomous provinces of Trento
and Bolzano.
Representing
the best of Valtellina’s PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI
(Protected Geographical Indication)-certified food specialities, the Distretto
Agroalimentare di Qualità unites Valtellina’s Consorzi di Tutela, which
safeguard its PDO and PGI products and bring this gastronomic excellence to a
global stage. Its core mission is promotion and protection, ensuring both
producers and regulatory bodies are seen and heard.
Beyond
advocacy, the organization manages relationships with national and EU
institutions and guarantees consumer safety. On a local level, it collaborates
with industry operators and institutions to elevate Valtellina’s food sector.
More than just a mark of quality, Valtellina Taste of Emotion stands as a
symbol of the region’s authenticity—rooted in nature, history, and culture.