Ceremony in Rome launches nationwide relay toward Milan–Cortina

ROME – The Olympic spirit radiated from the heart of Italy on Thursday as the flame for the 2026 Winter Games was ceremonially lit at the Quirinale Palace, the residence of the President of the Italian Republic. The historic moment marks the official beginning of the national relay that will carry the flame across the country ahead of the Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics.

The ceremony, held in the palace’s iconic Courtyard of Honour, blended ancient tradition with contemporary celebration. President Sergio Mattarella welcomed International Olympic Committee delegates, athletes, schoolchildren, and cultural representatives in a meticulously choreographed event designed to highlight Italy’s heritage and its readiness to host the world.

The flame was ignited using a reflective cauldron inspired by classical Roman design, symbolizing continuity between Italy’s ancient past and its modern role on the global sporting stage. Representatives from the Milan–Cortina 2026 organizing committee described the lighting as “a unifying moment for the nation,” reflecting the Games’ theme of sustainability, community, and regional pride.

After the ignition, the first torchbearer — Italian alpine skiing champion Marta Bassino — received the flame and began the opening meters of the national relay. Over the next several weeks, the torch will travel through all 20 Italian regions, stopping at UNESCO World Heritage sites, mountain communities, and major cities including Venice, Florence, Naples, and Turin. Organizers say the route was designed to showcase both Italy’s cultural richness and the environmental commitment of the 2026 Winter Games.

This year’s lighting ceremony also paid tribute to the volunteers who will support the Games, recognizing them as the backbone of the upcoming event. “The flame represents not only athletic excellence but the collective dedication of thousands,” said Giovanni Malagò, President of the Italian National Olympic Committee. “As the torch travels across the country, it will carry the hopes, dreams, and hard work of an entire nation.”

With the Opening Ceremony set to take place on February 6, 2026, in Milan’s San Siro Stadium, anticipation continues to build. The relay’s launch marks one of the final major milestones before Italy welcomes athletes from around the world for what is expected to be a celebration of sport, culture, and resilience.

As the flame left the Quirinale Palace, its golden glow signaled not only the start of a journey across Italy but the symbolic countdown to a Winter Olympics poised to leave a lasting legacy in the Alps and beyond.