Australian Olympic preparations for the Winter Games are continuing in northern Italy this week after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The team reports that training remains on track, with heightened health checks and contact tracing procedures in place to manage any cases that arise.
Organisers stress that the program is not derailed. A careful, safety-first approach is guiding daily routines, with medical staff closely monitoring symptoms, arranging testing where needed, and keeping the broader squad in the loop about any developments.
This phase of preparation is occurring ahead of key competition blocks and travel milestones, with officials emphasising that the emphasis is on steady, controlled progress rather than disruption. While the positive tests have prompted additional precautions, there has been no indication of a shift in the broader schedule for the Australian team.
What we know
- Two staff members have tested positive for COVID-19 while in northern Italy during a training block.
- The broader Australian Olympic squad continues training under enhanced health protocols and routine medical checks.
- Contact tracing and risk assessments have been activated to prevent further spread within the camp.
- Organisers say there has been no evidence of broader schedule changes or training pauses for the team so far.
- Dedicated medical staff are coordinating testing and return-to-training plans for anyone affected.
What we don’t know
- Whether additional positive cases will emerge among staff or athletes in the coming days.
- How long the affected staff will be in isolation and when they might return to full duties.
- If any specific training blocks will be adjusted as a precaution for the team.
- Whether any changes to travel plans or logistics for the Games will be necessary.
- What impact, if any, vaccination or booster status could have on risk management in this camp.
