3 Volunteers Reflect on 20 Years of Olympic Games

From Turin 2006 to Milan-Cortina 2026, these volunteers share what the Olympics mean to them.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A small army of volunteers keeps the Olympic Games running 24/7. At the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, some of these unsung heroes include three women who have volunteered at multiple Olympic Games over the past two decades, from Turin 2006 to the upcoming Milan-Cortina event.

Why it matters

The Olympic Games rely heavily on the dedication and hard work of thousands of volunteers who make the events possible. These three women's stories highlight the personal significance and lifelong impact that volunteering at the Olympics can have.

The details

The three volunteers - Francesca, Lucia, and Giulia - have collectively volunteered at 5 Olympic Games since 2006, taking on a variety of roles from transportation to event operations. Despite the long hours and hard work, they find the experience deeply rewarding and a way to be part of the magic of the Olympics.

  • Francesca, Lucia, and Giulia first volunteered at the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics.
  • They have continued volunteering at subsequent Winter Olympics in Vancouver 2010, Sochi 2014, Pyeongchang 2018, and the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Games.

The players

Francesca

A 42-year-old from Milan who has volunteered at 5 Olympic Games since 2006.

Lucia

A 38-year-old from Turin who has volunteered at 4 Olympic Games since 2006.

Giulia

A 35-year-old from Cortina d'Ampezzo who has volunteered at 3 Olympic Games since 2006.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Volunteering at the Olympics is the highlight of my year. It's hard work, but the energy and excitement make it all worthwhile.”

— Francesca (nhregister.com)

“I've made lifelong friends through the Olympic volunteer community. We're like a family, supporting each other year after year.”

— Lucia (nhregister.com)

“Seeing the joy on the athletes' and spectators' faces makes me proud to be part of bringing the Olympics to my hometown of Cortina.”

— Giulia (nhregister.com)

What’s next

The three volunteers are looking forward to reuniting and working together again at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

The takeaway

The stories of these three dedicated Olympic volunteers highlight the vital role that thousands of unsung heroes play in making the Games possible, and the profound personal impact that volunteering can have.