The organizing committee for the 2030 Winter Olympics has officially designated the Saulaie site in Oullins-Pierre-Bénite to host the athletes' village for the ice sports cluster. This decision, announced on August 3, 2026, follows a rigorous selection process involving the committee, the Solideo infrastructure agency, and the Métropole de Lyon. The location was chosen for its operational readiness, existing urban development plans, and environmental alignment, marking a significant milestone in the region's preparations for the upcoming Games.
The Lyon metropolitan area is set to become a central hub for the 2030 Winter Games, hosting all ice-based disciplines including hockey, figure skating, short-track speed skating, and curling. These events will take place at established venues such as the Halle Tony Garnier, the LDLC Arena in Décines-Charpieu, and the Eurexpo exhibition center in Chassieu. By concentrating these sports in Lyon, organizers aim to leverage existing infrastructure and reduce the need for new, costly construction.
This selection concludes a period of internal debate regarding the best location for the athletes' housing. While various sites were considered, including the Confluence district, the Saulaie project emerged as the most viable option. The site's integration into the broader Lyon transport and service network is expected to provide a compact and efficient experience for athletes and staff alike.
As preparations continue, the focus now shifts toward finalizing the technical requirements for each venue. The organizing committee, led by Edgar Grospiron, continues to work closely with international federations to ensure all facilities meet Olympic standards. With the site map now largely solidified, the region is moving into the next phase of operational planning to ensure the Games remain within budget and on schedule for the February 2030 opening.