Olympians at the heart of the Olympic Games, a milestone decision was taken today

24 | 6 | 2026

Dear fellow Olympians,

Today at the 146th IOC session in Lausanne, a milestone decision was taken. The chair of the IOC athletes commission, Mr Pau Gasol OLY, announced that all athletes who competed in the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games will be eligible to apply for a 10 000 USD grant.

Please see the story for reference: https://www.olympics.com/ioc/news/an-olympic-first-ioc-to-set-up-fit-for-the-future-olympian-grant-to-support-all-olympians-with-usd-10-000-starting-from-milano-cortina-2026.

I am truly encouraged by this decision from the IOC and its commitment to both current and future generations of Olympians. I would like to commend the Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, Mr Pau Gasol OLY, and the IOC President, Mrs Kirsty Coventry OLY, for their continued investment in Olympians and the wider Olympic community.  I also applaud the IOC’s belief in building a “Strong Olympian Community,” recognising that Olympians remain an important part of the Olympic Movement long after their competitive careers have ended. The WOA is proud to support this vision and help deliver these important messages through our network of 115 National Olympians Associations worldwide.

Best Olympian regards,

Pernilla Wiberg OLY President