"Ice sports have a certain level of popularity, but they are still a very specific discipline in Italy," Gouadec said.
He added that football still dominates the country's sporting landscape, while in the winter sports category, snow-based disciplines, such as alpine skiing , are more popular than those on ice.
FISG is working to bring ice sports back into the mainstream and attract wider participation, both from the general public and athletes.
"We hope the Milan-Cortina Games will give greater visibility to ice sports," said Gouadec. "As a federation, we are working to involve more athletes and encourage the construction of more facilities across Italy."
The former Italian short track speed skater sees several encouraging signs, including increased media coverage and public discussion since preparations for the 2026 Milan-Cortina event began. He hopes the event's success will create continued momentum.
The Winter Olympics have returned to Italy since the 2006 Turin Winter Games. According to Gouadec, short track speed skating has grown to a higher level in the past 20 years.
"Now, we have more competitions every year," Gouadec said. "Smaller countries are also becoming more competitive in short track speed skating."
