Winter Olympics Report 8: Olympic Warmongering

Amongst the host of polluting sponsors at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Leonardo - one of the world’s biggest arms manufacturers - is a key partner and equipment provider for the Games.

In his latest report Matt Rendell questions where this leaves the spirit of the Olympic truce. Leonardo’s reach extends globally, including to Edinburgh, a city that in 2024 introduced a ban on advertising for fossil fuels and arms manufacturers.

But as Matt’s interview with Scottish Greens Councillor Ben Parker shows, there’s still plenty of work to be done to tackle the influence of companies like Leonardo.

In the UK, the arms manufacturer is “notable for producing laser targeting components for F-35 fighter jets, used extensively by the Israeli military in Gaza” (source: CAAT UK)

Where does the winter Games’ involvement with Leonardo leave their commitment to building a more peaceful world through sport and the Olympic ideal?

Throughout the Games, Matt Rendell will be speaking with locals about the environmental and social impacts of the Milano-Cortina Olympics.