21 October 2025 – After its hugely successful debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Athlete365 x Powerade Mind Zone is returning for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, giving athletes another opportunity to recharge, refocus and prioritise their mental well-being during the Games.
Following its launch at Paris 2024, the space quickly became one of the most popular areas in the Olympic Village. Approximately 2,300 athletes from 148 countries took part in virtual reality mindfulness sessions, while thousands more joined art therapy and guided breathing activities. The initiative received overwhelmingly positive feedback from athletes, with 92 per cent saying they were satisfied with their experience.
Emma Terho, Chair of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission (AC), said: “For the IOC AC, the athlete experience at the Olympic Games is one of the most important areas of focus, and we were very pleased to see the success of the Mind Zone at Paris 2024.”
Seeing so many athletes using the service, whether to calm their mind before competition or recover afterwards, was incredible. Given the positive feedback we received from athletes who competed in Paris, I am very happy that we are able to provide a similar service for athletes during Milano Cortina 2026.
Emma Terho – Chair of the International Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission
For Milano Cortina 2026, the Athlete365 x Powerade Mind Zone will once again offer a calm, welcoming environment where athletes can prepare for or recover from competition. Designed in partnership with Worldwide Olympic Partner Coca-Cola through its Powerade brand, the space brings together science-backed activities and on-site well-being support to help athletes perform at their best.
Each of the six Olympic Villages at Milano Cortina 2026 will host its own dedicated area, offering activities such as mindfulness and visualisation through virtual reality, guided breathing exercises and art therapy sessions. The spaces, with the exception of Bormio, will be staffed by qualified IOC and International Federation safeguarding officers, trained in mental health first aid, who will be on hand for confidential conversations and further guidance if needed.
The Mind Zone reflects the shared commitment of the IOC and Powerade to supporting athlete mental health. It also forms part of the IOC’s comprehensive Games-time services that promote mental well-being, prevent issues before they arise and provide care whenever needed, alongside initiatives such as the Mentally Fit Helpline and the Cyber Abuse Protection System.
Comprehensive mental health support for athletes at Milano Cortina 2026
Athletes competing at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games can expect the same high level of mental health and safeguarding support that was delivered at Paris 2024 – the most comprehensive programme of its kind ever implemented at a major sporting event.
