As the world looks ahead to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, a new wave of anticipation is already building for what comes next. On Tuesday in Milan, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced its support for the 2034 Utah Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, signaling a powerful commitment to welcoming the world back to Salt Lake City.
The announcement was made during a media event at the headquarters of the Milan Foreign Press Association, just days before the 2026 Games begin on February 6. With global attention focused on northern Italy, the message from Utah was clear: the spirit of the Olympic and Paralympic Games is alive, thriving, and looking toward the future.
Bishop Sean Douglas, Second Counselor in the Church’s Presiding Bishopric, outlined the Church’s broad support for the 2034 Games. That commitment includes a significant financial contribution, the use of Church-owned real estate in downtown Salt Lake City—known as Block 85—as an official Olympic venue, and additional land to support parking near proposed competition sites.
“While this contribution of cash and real estate is important, beyond price are the hearts and extraordinary commitment of our member volunteers who make this contribution truly complete and unique.” — Bishop Douglas
Equally important, Church members will be encouraged to serve as volunteers, reflecting the Church’s long-standing emphasis on service, hospitality, and strengthening communities. Thousands are expected to lend their time and talents, helping create a warm, welcoming experience for athletes and visitors from around the globe.
This partnership builds on a proud legacy. During the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, the Church provided financial support, facilities, and thousands of volunteers. The 2034 commitment continues that tradition of collaboration, service, and unity.
Fraser Bullock, executive chair and president of Utah 2034, expressed deep gratitude for the Church’s involvement, noting that strong community partnerships are central to Utah’s ability to host another exceptional Games.
“The Church … carries a global message of unity and service to others — very much in line with Olympic and Paralympic ideals.” —Fraser Bullock
“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is an integral part of Utah’s heritage and was a vital supporter of the 2002 Winter Games,” Bullock said. “Our new relationship fortifies the partnership we shared in 2002. It also extends a worldwide reach from the Church that carries a global message of unity and service to others—very much in line with Olympic and Paralympic ideals.”
Bullock pointed to the lasting impact of the 2002 Games, remembered for their spirit of unity, volunteerism, and cultural celebration, and looked ahead to an even more vibrant future.
“Salt Lake City will be the heart of the Games,” he said. “Imagine thousands gathering each night at the Medals Plaza, celebrating together and thrilling to the high-flying acrobatics with the addition of big air.”
A Promise to Welcome the World
When Salt Lake City was officially named the host of the 2034 Games in 2024, the Church’s First Presidency affirmed that the Church “[stands] ready to support the 2034 Olympic Games in welcoming athletes, volunteers and visitors from around the world,” and is committed to helping the city reflect values of service, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Tuesday’s announcement in Milan reaffirmed that promise—one rooted in history, energized by community, and filled with hope for a global celebration that brings people together through sport, service, and shared humanity.
