Sunny day! Elmo and his friends are inviting the world to come and play at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina in Italy.
As announced Tuesday (Oct. 28), the furry red monster is bringing Cookie Monster, Grover and more muppet pals to the Games in February to help with NBCUniversal’s coverage of the biennial event. According to a release, the characters will be featured in activations across Sesame Street’s socials leading up to and during the competitions, as well as in NBCU’s social and broadcast coverage of the athletics.
“Elmo is very excited to come to Milan – that’s in Italy!” Elmo said in statement. “Elmo can’t wait to cheer on all the athletes at the Olympics. Elmo’s mommy is knitting him a special red, white and blue hat. Yeah, baby!”
Cookie Monster added that he’s excited for the trip for other reasons. “Me been practicing curling with a giant chocolate chippie!” he said. “Me can’t wait to try all the delicious Italian treats. Cannoli, me got me eye on you!”
The inclusion of Sesame Street in next year’s Games follows the success of Elmo and friends’ partnership with NBCU in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics. The gang was featured in illustrations showing their method of travel to the city for the event — via hot air balloon — as well as spots on TODAY, Access Hollywood, NBC Nightly News for Kids promoting the contest.
The group also participated in NBC Sports’ daytime coverage of the Summer Games, meeting Team USA athletes and sharing their experiences on the Sesame Street and NBC Olympics socials.
“Sesame Street has long been a source of joy and learning for families across the country,” said Lyndsay Signor, senior VP of sports marketing for Universal Television Entertainment Group, in a statement. “Bringing Elmo, Cookie Monster and their friends to the Winter Games in Milan and Cortina after the success in Paris adds a playful and heartwarming touch to our Olympic storytelling.”
“Their universal charm fits perfectly with the global spirit of the Olympics,” she added. “And Cookie Monster — we’ve got a fresh batch of biscotti waiting for you!”
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