The 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy are underway, but the games are facing challenges, including suspected sabotage and last-minute uniform redesigns, while the U.S. is dealing with a government shutdown that could impact travel. Competition began on February 4th and is scheduled to continue through the closing ceremony on February 22nd, with the Paralympics to follow in March.
According to CBS News, the venues in Italy are six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and nine hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time. Norway currently leads the medal count, followed by the United States and Italy. However, the games have been marred by suspected acts of sabotage. Al Jazeera reported that trains operating through Italy suffered delays of over an hour on Saturday following the latest suspected act. Services between Naples and Rome were affected, as were lines heading towards Florence.
Meanwhile, the Haitian team's uniform designer, Stella Jean, was forced to redesign their ski suits at the last minute, according to The Guardian. The original design, which depicted the formerly enslaved revolutionary Toussaint Louverture, was altered after being told it breached guidelines. The animal, however, was allowed to remain.
Adding to the complications, the U.S. government is facing a partial shutdown. BBC World reported that the shutdown began at midnight on Saturday after Congress failed to pass a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Travel groups and airlines are warning of potential disruption, including flight delays and longer wait times. "Travellers and the US economy cannot afford to have essential TSA personnel working without pay," a joint statement from several groups, including Airlines for America, said.
In other news, the search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie, continues. ABC News reported that the 84-year-old was allegedly kidnapped from her Tucson, Arizona, home on February 1st. The FBI released photos and videos of an armed person in a mask near her home.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment