How to Watch the Next Olympics for Free

Every four years, the Olympics unite the world’s top athletes. Behind this grand event is a dedicated team of volunteers. Paulina Vergara, a volunteer from Mexico for the Paris Olympics, shares her journey: “I always wanted to be a part of this experience. I applied for Tokyo 2020 and the World Cup in Qatar but wasn’t chosen. When the chance for Paris 2024 came up, I knew I had to give it another shot.”

The Volunteer Application Journey

The process to become an Olympic volunteer is fiercely competitive. For the Paris Games, over 300,000 individuals submitted applications, yet only around 45,000 were selected from across the globe. Volunteers are assigned to specific roles, so having relevant skills can give you an edge. For instance, the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan will look for volunteers in hospitality, languages, technology, event operations, and sports competitions. If you have language skills or tech expertise, make sure to highlight that in your application.

Vergara applied early for Paris through her former employer, an official Olympics sponsor, nearly two years in advance. In October 2023, she was chosen to join the event services team. Her responsibilities included welcoming spectators, guiding them to their seats, and addressing their inquiries. A bonus of her role? Since she volunteered at the boxing and climbing venues, she had the opportunity to watch some of the events during her shifts.

Drew Bell, a travel blogger and content creator, submitted his application in May 2023, received an offer last November, and joined the transportation team, assisting athletes and media with logistics.

“If you're hesitant, just go ahead and apply. Chances are, you might not get selected. If you don't, no big deal. If you do, that’s fantastic,” he advises.

The Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering at the Olympics is an incredible way to spend a few weeks in a foreign country. You’ll connect with people globally, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and gain insights into your assigned role. However, it can be expensive. Volunteers do not receive ticket discounts or accommodation assistance. They do receive valuable items like an Olympics-branded watch, a duffel bag, a fanny pack, uniforms (including shoes, pants, shirts, a jacket, and a hat), a public transportation card, and one meal per shift.

Once assigned to your venue, you’ll start working, but you might catch glimpses of athletes or events from your station. “Free access to venues isn’t provided, and tickets are not discounted,” explains Bell, who decided to volunteer after seeing a notice in a newsletter. “I love the Olympics and sports. It’s a remarkable organization. Don’t expect to watch a lot of events, but it’s a fantastic way to experience the Olympics.”

Despite this, both he and Vergara managed to witness a few events due to their roles at specific venues. Bell emphasizes that the true highlight of the experience was the vibrant Olympic atmosphere. “You’re right in the thick of it—with the most passionate fans, top athletes, and big-name celebrities,” he explains. “Everyone who loves the Olympics is here, and their energy is contagious.”

How to Apply as a Volunteer for the Milan 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games

Each Olympic Games has a slightly different application process, typically involving a questionnaire designed to align volunteers with roles that suit their skills and personalities.

For the Milan 2026 Winter Olympics, applications will be accepted starting September 2024, with volunteer selections made by spring 2025. Training sessions will occur that summer (specific details are yet to be released), and uniforms along with accreditation will be available by winter 2025. (The application timeline for the Los Angeles 2028 Games has not yet been revealed.)

Generally, applicants must be at least 18 years old and able to attend selection and training sessions prior to the Games (details for Milan will be available on the upcoming Team26 portal). They should also have basic proficiency in Italian or English and be available for at least nine nonconsecutive days from February 6 to 22 or during the Paralympic Games from March 6 to 15, 2026.

For Vergara, there’s no doubt that the experience was worth every moment of waiting and the hurdles faced. “I got to witness Mexico compete and triumph in boxing; it was incredible,” she shares. “It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime event.”