The Olympic flame destined for the Milan Cortina Winter Games made its grand arrival in Rome on Thursday, following a ceremonial handover in Greece. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a significant chapter leading up to the games.
Transported within a specially designed lantern on an ITA Airways flight, the flame was welcomed off the aircraft by esteemed tennis player and Olympic champion Jasmine Paolini, who was joined by Giovanni Malagò, the president of the organizing committee. Their participation highlights the importance of this flame, a symbol of peace and unity.
Upcoming relay and grand opening ceremony
The journey of the Olympic flame is set to unfold over an impressive 63 days, covering a distance of 12,000 kilometers across Italy. The relay will kick off on Saturday, traversing all 110 provinces of the country. This extensive route culminates at Milan’s iconic San Siro Stadium, where the opening ceremony will take place on February 6, 2026.
Significant events leading to the games
In an official ceremony on Friday, the flame will be used to ignite a cauldron at the historic Quirinale Palace. This event will be attended by President Sergio Mattarella and Kirsty Coventry, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), showcasing the flame’s role as a harbinger of the forthcoming Winter Games.
“The arrival of the Olympic flame is a moment of great pride for Italy and a testament to our commitment to hosting this prestigious event,”
said Giovanni Malagò, expressing the enthusiasm surrounding the games. As the torch travels throughout the country, it will not only celebrate athletic achievement but also foster a spirit of camaraderie among the Italian people.