The much-anticipated journey of the Olympic flame commenced in the historic streets of Rome, marking the countdown to the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games set to begin on February 5. The flame will traverse Italy, igniting excitement and unity in the lead-up to this prestigious event.
On Friday afternoon, President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella ignited the Olympic brazier, emphasizing the importance of global peace and the enduring values associated with the Olympic spirit. The inaugural torch relay kicked off on Saturday morning at the Stadio dei Marmi, in the presence of sports dignitaries including Presidents Buonfiglio and Malagò, who also lit the brazier.
The torch relay in Rome
The relay featured notable Italian sports stars who carried the flame, beginning with swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri, followed by fencer Elisa Di Francisca and high jumper Gianmarco Tamberi. One of the most poignant moments came when basketball player Achille Polonara, battling myeloid leukaemia, took hold of the torch to thunderous applause from the crowd, symbolizing resilience and hope.
After departing the Stadio dei Marmi, the torch was passed among various federal presidents, including Laura Lunetta from Sports Dance. As the relay progressed, Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan-Cortina Foundation, took the torch near the Giulio Onesti Centre. In Piazza Cavour, tennis champion Matteo Berrettini celebrated by signing his name on camera as he received the torch.
The torch’s journey culminated at Castel Sant’Angelo, where it was greeted by basketball star Gigi Datome. The day concluded with the flame reaching its final destination in Piazza del Popolo around 7:30 PM.
Details about the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympic torch
Beginning on Sunday, the torch will be carried by an impressive 10,000 torchbearers over the course of 63 days. Throughout its journey, it will traverse all 20 Italian regions and 110 provinces, passing numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, creating a symbolic route that embodies the spirit of the Olympics across the nation.
The torches for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games have been dubbed ‘Essential’, a name that reflects their minimalist design while highlighting the significance of the flame. Produced by Eni, the Presenting Partner of the Olympic Flame Journey, in collaboration with Versalis, these torches are notable for being the first in Olympic history to receive ReMade class A certification, recognizing their recycled material content.
“The torch is the universal symbol of unity, hope and perseverance, embodying core values of friendship, respect and excellence that define the Olympics.”
As the flame makes its way across Italy, it embodies the collective enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming Winter Games, uniting athletes and fans in a celebration of sport and camaraderie.