Free condoms distributed at the Olympic Village during the 2026 Winter Olympics ran out in just three days, drawing global attention and sparking debate over why supplies were so limited this year.
Athletes arriving at the Milan-Cortina Games were surprised to find that only 10,000 condoms had been made available. By comparison, the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics distributed 300,000, while the Rio 2016 Olympic Games handed out 450,000. The sharp drop in numbers has raised eyebrows, even though Winter Games traditionally host fewer athletes.
An anonymous competitor told Italian media that the initial stock disappeared within 72 hours. Organizers have reportedly promised to restock, but no timeline has been confirmed.
The tradition of offering free condoms dates back to the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. The initiative was introduced to promote safe sex and increase awareness about sexually transmitted infections among athletes. Over the years, the practice has become a well-known — and often discussed — feature of life inside the Olympic Village.
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The Milan-Cortina Winter Games feature around 2,900 athletes, significantly fewer than the more than 10,000 participants typically seen at Summer Olympics. In addition, many athletes are staying in Milan rather than the main Olympic Village in Cortina, which may have influenced distribution planning. Officials likely calculated demand based on the smaller scale of the event.
Still, the rapid depletion suggests that demand outpaced expectations. Some observers speculate that branded condoms often become souvenirs during the Games, which can accelerate distribution beyond projected usage.
Attilio Fontana defended the initiative, calling it a normal and responsible aspect of hosting the Olympics. He emphasized that athlete well-being includes promoting safe practices. This year’s condoms feature the yellow Lombardy Region logo, adding a local touch to the global event.
Social media added fuel to the conversation when Olivia Smart posted a playful Instagram video showing the branded packets. “I found them. They have everything you need,” she joked, and the clip quickly went viral.
Life inside the Olympic Village extends far beyond competition. Athletes have access to a fully equipped gym, recreation areas with table football and air hockey, a piano lounge, and complimentary drinks including Coca-Cola and smoothies. The condom shortage stands out mainly because other amenities appear to be running smoothly.
Organizers say they are working to replenish supplies, though they have not announced when new stock will arrive. For now, the brief shortage has once again highlighted one of the Olympic Games’ most talked-about traditions — one that has remained in place for nearly four decades.