The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games officially opened on February 6, 2026, with a spectacular ceremony that spanned four locations across Northern Italy, featuring performances by Andrea Bocelli and Mariah Carey. This marked a historic moment as Kirsty Coventry, the first female International Olympic Committee president, declared the Games open, emphasizing unity and human spirit through sport.
The opening ceremony was a logistical feat, taking place simultaneously at Milan’s San Siro stadium, Cortina, Livigno, and Predazzo. Despite initial concerns over coordinating multiple venues, the event proceeded smoothly, showcasing Italian organizational prowess. Two Olympic cauldrons were lit—one in Milan and another in Cortina—symbolizing the widespread nature of these Games. Andrea Bocelli’s powerful rendition of ‘Nessun Dorma’ accompanied the torch’s entry into San Siro, while Mariah Carey, adorned in a sparkling white outfit, performed ‘Volare,’ captivating audiences worldwide.
Creative director Marco Balich centered the ceremony on the theme of ‘armonia,’ meaning harmony, which aimed to unite territories, people, and values. The production included segments celebrating ‘Italian beauty’ and ‘fantasia,’ with a poignant tribute to fashion icon Giorgio Armani, who passed away in 2025. The narrative wove together elements of Italian culture, from opera masters like Verdi and Puccini to symbols of cuisine, highlighting the country’s rich heritage.
The athlete parade was a jubilant affair, with the Italian team receiving thunderous cheers as the last to enter in all four locations. Great Britain’s flagbearers were figure skater Lilah Fear in Milan and bobsledder Brad Hall in Cortina. Ukrainian athletes were warmly welcomed, reflecting global solidarity, while Team USA also received loud applause. However, the ceremony had political undertones, with boos echoing when US Vice-President JD Vance appeared on screen, and negative reactions for the Israeli and Georgian teams.
In his speech, Giovanni Malago, president of the Milan-Cortina organizing committee, expressed pride in Italy’s ability to deliver such a complex project, inspired by Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect. Kirsty Coventry, in her historic role, told athletes that the Games remind us of our best selves—bravery, kindness, and resilience. Her declaration emphasized that the Olympic spirit transcends sport, focusing on what makes us human.
The opening ceremony set the stage for two weeks of competition, with events like curling, figure skating, and ice hockey already underway. The first five gold medals are scheduled to be awarded on Saturday, February 7, adding to the anticipation. This Games is notable for being the ‘first widespread Olympics,’ with competitions spread across multiple regions, aiming to leave a lasting legacy in Italian sport and infrastructure.
As the Games progress, all eyes will be on the athletes striving for glory, with the opening ceremony’s message of unity and harmony echoing throughout. The successful launch has bolstered confidence in the organizers and promises an exciting spectacle for winter sports fans globally.
