In 2026, for the first time in Olympic history, two cities will host the games together: Milan and Cortina dAmpezzo, Italy. The latter is close to the Austrian border, and about 150 miles northeast of the former. Ahead of the 2026 Winter games, a new stadium in Milan designed by David Chipperfield Architects (DCA) is now under construction. Arena Santa Giulia is a collaboration between DCA and Arup.The venue will have a generous piazza. (Courtesy DCA)Arena Santa Giulia is one of two permanent venues to be built for the 2026 Olympic Games. Its architecture, DCA said, is meant to echo the elliptical form of Milans old Roman amphitheater. The stadium will be able to host 16,000 spectators. Its exterior will be fronted by three metal rings that each size up in width as the building rises. In renderings these rings are depicted with programmed screens that list out the games or activities happening within. In the evening, LED lights will glow through the glazed portions of the circular stadium, subtly illuminating the building from within.These features will open onto a piazza down below. Inside the stadium will be ample circulation areas to usher spectators to seating sections. A speakeasy lounge, small concert spaces, and other mixed-use programming will be located inside as well.The venue will be able to host 16,000 spectators. (Courtesy DCA)The new arena will be a major contribution to the public infrastructure of the city, and the result of a collaborative process and enthusiasm from all sides, David Chipperfield said in a statement. The form of the building is rooted in Milans rich cultural heritage, Chipperfield continued. It echoes the elliptical form of the citys former Roman amphitheatre, giving a contemporary expression to a historic archetype and creating a new place for gathering and collective entertainment.In the speakeasy lounge there will be bar seating and tables located closer to the stage. (Courtesy DCA)When not watching sports or other entertainment there are lounge and bar spaces to kick back in. (Courtesy DCA)The city of Cortina dAmpezzo hosted the 1956 Olympics, and already has infrastructure in place to host this round. Christophe Dubi, Olympic Games executive director, stated that the steering committee prioritized the use of existing infrastructure, so as to make the events impact as minimal as possible.It is not up to a city or a region to adapt to the Games; it is for the Games to adapt to a city and a region, Dubi said in a statement. In other words, we first promote the use of existing facilities. The second option is to use temporary venues if it makes sense.Construction is slated for completion in December 2025. (Courtesy DCA)The third and last choice is to build a full-time, permanent venuebut only if it is needed by the community, Dubi continued. Santa Giulia Arena is the perfect example of something that is needed. There is no such arena in Milan; in fact, there arent many in Italy. It can be used for sports, concerts, and entertainment.Arena Santa Giulia is slated for completion in December 2025, just ahead of the start of the 2026 Winter Olympics, which will take place February 222, 2026.