The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are officially under way as the opening ceremony lit up the night with elements spread across four iconic locations: Milan, Cortina, Livigno, and Predazzo.
Milan's famed San Siro stadium served as the primary hub of activity. Concerns about the logistics of a multi-venue event were eased as the ceremony unfolded seamlessly, much to the delight of attendees.
Two Olympic cauldrons were ignited during the ceremony—one in Milan and another in Cortina. Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli enthralled the crowd with his stirring rendition of 'Nessun Dorma,' coinciding with the arrival of the torch at San Siro. This culminated in an emotional and triumphant athlete's parade, with Team Italy receiving the loudest cheers.
Figure skater Lilah Fear bore the flag for Great Britain, while bobsledder Brad Hall was honored with the same role in Cortina. Athletes from Ukraine and Team USA were especially celebrated by the crowd, unlike some other teams which faced a less favorable reception from the audience.
The creative direction from Marco Balich emphasized 'armonia', signifying unity across people, places, and values. The ceremony showcased sections titled 'Italian beauty' and 'fantasia,' including a touching tribute to fashion icon Giorgio Armani, who passed away in 2025.
Pop sensation Mariah Carey dazzled the audience, performing her version of 'Volare' in a sparkling outfit. Giovanni Malago, president of the organizing committee, expressed his pride in the collaborative spirit that brought the event together, which he believes embodies the essence of Italian culture.
International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry, the first woman to hold the position, declared the Games open, inspiring athletes and spectators alike. The first gold medals will be contested amidst a plethora of winter sports—including curling, figure skating, and ice hockey—this Saturday.
Milan's famed San Siro stadium served as the primary hub of activity. Concerns about the logistics of a multi-venue event were eased as the ceremony unfolded seamlessly, much to the delight of attendees.
Two Olympic cauldrons were ignited during the ceremony—one in Milan and another in Cortina. Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli enthralled the crowd with his stirring rendition of 'Nessun Dorma,' coinciding with the arrival of the torch at San Siro. This culminated in an emotional and triumphant athlete's parade, with Team Italy receiving the loudest cheers.
Figure skater Lilah Fear bore the flag for Great Britain, while bobsledder Brad Hall was honored with the same role in Cortina. Athletes from Ukraine and Team USA were especially celebrated by the crowd, unlike some other teams which faced a less favorable reception from the audience.
The creative direction from Marco Balich emphasized 'armonia', signifying unity across people, places, and values. The ceremony showcased sections titled 'Italian beauty' and 'fantasia,' including a touching tribute to fashion icon Giorgio Armani, who passed away in 2025.
Pop sensation Mariah Carey dazzled the audience, performing her version of 'Volare' in a sparkling outfit. Giovanni Malago, president of the organizing committee, expressed his pride in the collaborative spirit that brought the event together, which he believes embodies the essence of Italian culture.
International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry, the first woman to hold the position, declared the Games open, inspiring athletes and spectators alike. The first gold medals will be contested amidst a plethora of winter sports—including curling, figure skating, and ice hockey—this Saturday.
