Italy: The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games have begun following a vibrant opening ceremony staged across four locations in Italy, led by Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium.
Additional segments took place in Cortina, Livigno and Predazzo, showcasing a bold, multi-city concept that organisers said symbolised unity and cooperation. Despite early concerns over logistics, the ceremony unfolded seamlessly.
Two Olympic cauldrons were lit simultaneously in Milan and Cortina, while renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli delivered a powerful rendition of Nessun Dorma as the Olympic torch entered San Siro. The athletes’ parade concluded with a rapturous reception for the host nation, Italy, cheered across all four venues.
Great Britain’s flag was carried by figure skater Lilah Fear in Milan and bobsledder Brad Hall in Cortina. Ukrainian athletes received one of the warmest welcomes of the night, alongside Team USA, while boos were heard when US Vice-President JD Vance appeared on screens. Mixed reactions were also directed at the Israel and Georgia teams.
Creative director Marco Balich framed the ceremony around the theme of ‘armonia,’ highlighting unity, connection and shared values. The programme included tributes to Italian culture and fashion, notably honouring legendary designer Giorgio Armani, who died in 2025. American singer Mariah Carey added a global pop moment with a performance of Volare.
Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan-Cortina 2026 organising committee, praised the collective effort behind the Games, calling it a powerful demonstration of Italy’s ability to deliver a complex global event. The Games were officially declared open by International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry, marking the first time in Olympic history that a woman has opened the Games.
While competitions such as curling, figure skating and ice hockey are already underway, the first five gold medals of Milan-Cortina 2026 will be awarded.
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