Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics begin with grand opening ceremony

Sports Desk
The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games kicked off with a colorful and vibrant opening ceremony. The event was held simultaneously in four different venues, with the main stage being the historic San Siro Stadium in Italy, as well as various parts of the event taking place in Cortina, Livigno and Predazzo.

Despite initial concerns about the venue of the event in many locations, the entire event went off without a hitch. A special highlight was the lighting of the two Olympic torches—one in Milan and the other in Cortina. The flame was lit by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who sang the song “Nessun Dorma” to the audience.

At the end of the athletes’ parade, the host Italian team took to the field to thunderous applause at all four venues. Figure skater Lilah Fear carried the flag for Great Britain in Milan, while bobsledder Brad Hall took the responsibility in Cortina.

Apart from Italy, the Ukrainian athletes received the warmest reception. The US team also received a standing ovation. However, a section of the audience expressed dissatisfaction when US Vice President JD Vance was shown on the big screen. Similarly, negative reactions were seen when the Israeli and Georgian teams took the field.

The event’s creative director, Marco Balich, designed the entire event around the concept of ‘Armonia’ or unity, highlighting various aspects of Italy’s beauty, imagination and culture. A special tribute was paid to the late fashion designer Giorgio Armani. In addition, the song ‘Volare’, performed by popular American artist Mariah Carey in a dazzling white dress, won the hearts of the audience.

“The combination of so many institutions to realize the same dream is a great testament to the capacity of our country. I am more proud than ever to be Italian tonight,” said Giovanni Malago, president of the Milan-Cortina 2026 organizing committee.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry officially declared the Games open, marking the first time in history that a female IOC president has opened the Olympics.

“You remind us that we can be brave, that we can be kind, and that no matter how many times we fall, we can get back up again. The spirit of the Olympics is not just about sports, it’s about celebrating humanity,” he said to the athletes.

Several events, including curling, figure skating and ice hockey, have already begun. The first five gold medal matches of the Games will be held on Saturday.