Protests Over Winter Olympics Costs, ICE Presence Clash With Police in Italy

Thousands marched peacefully, but a breakaway group set off fireworks and threw bottles at riot officers in Milan.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After thousands of protesters rallied against the cost and environmental impact of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, as well as the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, a small group of demonstrators clashed with police, leading to at least seven detentions. The protests underscored the opposition to the games from left-wing groups, even as the opening ceremonies took place the previous day.

Why it matters

The clash highlights the ongoing tensions around the Winter Olympics, with critics arguing the games are too costly and environmentally damaging. The presence of ICE agents also inflamed passions, reflecting broader debates around immigration enforcement. These protests could continue to disrupt the games and draw attention to the controversies surrounding them.

The details

Police in Milan said they responded after some protesters set off fireworks and threw bottles towards the end of an otherwise peaceful march by thousands of demonstrators from left-wing groups. The groups have complained about the cost and environmental toll of hosting the Winter Olympics. Tensions were also high due to the revelation that ICE agents were sent to Italy to assist with Olympic security.

  • The protests took place on Saturday, a day after the Opening Ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Games.
  • Late last month, it was revealed that ICE agents would be deployed to Italy to help with Olympic security.

The players

Giorgia Meloni

The Prime Minister of Italy, whose right-wing government announced new security measures ahead of the protests that will grant police more power to intervene in demonstrations.

Riccardo Truppo

A Milan city council member from Meloni's Brothers of Italy Party, who said the clashes were sparked by "fringe groups" looking to exploit the world's attention on Italy during the Olympics.

Benedetta Scuderi

An Italian member of the European Parliament with the Green and Left Alliance (AVS) who joined the march, and said the clashes involved only "a very few people" after most protesters had left.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The point is that these games cost a lot and were not sustainable.”

— Benedetta Scuderi, Italian member of European Parliament

What’s next

The government's new security measures granting police more power to intervene in protests have not yet come into force, and it remains to be seen how they will be implemented during the remainder of the Winter Games.

The takeaway

The protests over the cost and environmental impact of the Winter Olympics, as well as the presence of ICE agents, underscore the ongoing controversies surrounding the games. While the opening ceremonies proceeded, these demonstrations show that opposition to the Olympics remains strong and could continue to disrupt the events in the days ahead.