72 Hours Sold Out! Surging Demand for Condoms at 2026 Winter Olympics as Athletes Complain of Shortage,
On 14 Feb 2025 GMT+7, a widely discussed issue emerged at the 2026 Winter Olympics after reports that about 10,000 free condoms in the athletes' village were completely distributed within just 72 hours.
NBC News reported that some athletes said condom stocks were nearly depleted upon their arrival at the village. Organizers confirmed they are sending additional shipments but did not specify when the restock will arrive.
Although fewer than 3,000 athletes are competing at the Winter Olympics, condom demand remains close to levels seen at previous Games. Free condom distribution has been standard since the 1988 Seoul Olympics to promote safe sex and raise awareness about HIV and sexually transmitted infections.
Compared to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where approximately 300,000 condoms were prepared—averaging about two per person per day—the much smaller supply this time is viewed as a key factor behind the rapid shortage.
Italian media La Stampa reported that organizers prepared fewer condoms than in past events. Despite the smaller scale of the Games, the stock ran out faster than expected.
Typically, free condoms are distributed throughout the event and often feature the host city or region's logo, serving as part of health promotion campaigns for athletes.