Slovenia House Opens in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Conceived as an open and inclusive space, the Slovenia House connects sport, culture, tourism, business and gastronomy under the national brand I feel Slovenia. Visitors can follow Olympic competitions, take part in events, meet representatives from various fields and experience Slovenia in a lively international environment.

The Slovenia House is open daily from 9 a.m. to midnight and operates at the Janbo Bar, one of the most popular social venues in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Opening marked by Slovenia’s Olympic champions

The opening of the Slovenia House was marked by the presence of two exceptional Slovenian athletes and Olympic champions, Tina Maze and Primož Roglič, who embody the values of dedication, perseverance and excellence that Slovenia presents at the Games.

The President of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia, Franjo Bobinac, highlighted the importance of the Slovenia House as a meeting point that strengthens Slovenia’s international visibility and reflects the strong role of sport in Slovenian society.

The Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, Matjaž Han, emphasised that Slovenia’s participation in the Olympic Games extends beyond sporting results and represents an opportunity to showcase the country’s broader potential. He underlined the importance of unity and collective support for Slovenian athletes and invited visitors to experience Slovenia through the Slovenia House programme.

As ambassador of the Slovenia House, Tina Maze highlighted the importance of connection and dialogue:

 “I am proud to be the ambassador of the Slovenia House. Through dialogue, we can build a strong community, and if I have inspired even one young person along the way, that means a great deal to me.”

Reflecting on her sporting journey, she stressed that success is built over time: “Talent alone is not enough. It takes persistence, hard work and personal growth to become a winner.”

Primož Roglič, whose career path from ski jumping to world-class cycling is widely regarded as one of the most inspiring stories in Slovenian sport, addressed the importance of courage and passion:

“In sport, you need courage and sometimes stubbornness. It is important to follow your dreams and do what you truly enjoy.”

A comprehensive programme

Throughout the Olympic Games, the Slovenia House hosts a diverse programme that brings together sport, culture, tourism, business and gastronomy. Alongside cultural and sporting events, the programme includes expert discussions, business meetings and tourism presentations aimed at strengthening international cooperation and promoting Slovenia as a green, innovative and well-connected country.

Special emphasis is placed on business networking and cross-border cooperation, tourism promotion in cooperation with the Slovenian Tourist Board, and gastronomic presentations showcasing Slovenia as a boutique culinary and wine destination.

Showcasing Slovenia to the world

The Slovenia House also serves as a platform for coordinated promotion of Slovenia, supported by cooperation between the Olympic Committee of Slovenia, government institutions and partner organisations. The project aims to achieve long-term effects, including increased international visibility, stronger business ties and enhanced recognition of Slovenia’s values and identity.

The Slovenia House project at the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games is supported by the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and implemented in cooperation with the Slovenian Olympic Committee and national institutions and partner organisations.

Tina Maze – Ambassador of the Slovenia House

Tina Maze, ambassador of the Slovenia House, is regarded as the most successful Slovenian athlete in history. During her outstanding career, she won four Olympic medals (two gold and two silver), nine medals at World Championships (four gold and five silver), and achieved 26 victories in the Alpine Skiing World Cup.

Her 2012/2013 season remains one of the most impressive achievements in the history of alpine skiing. With a record-breaking 2,414 World Cup points, she set a milestone that has yet to be surpassed. Together with her team Team to aMaze, led by coach Andrea Massi, she demonstrated that complete dedication, hard work and focus lead to exceptional results.

Primož Roglič – A Story of Inspiration

The sporting journey of former ski jumper and cycling champion Primož Roglič is one of the most inspiring stories in Slovenian and international sport. He began his career as a ski jumper and became a Junior World Champion in the team event, before a serious fall redirected his path toward professional road cycling. At the age of 22, he signed his first professional cycling contract.

Roglič went on to become the first Slovenian to win a stage at the Tour de France and wear the yellow jersey, claimed victory at the Giro d’Italia, won the Vuelta a España four times, and captured Olympic gold in the individual time trial at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games. Today, Primož Roglič is widely recognised as one of the greatest figures in Slovenian sport.