Italy welcomed the world as it officially opened the XXV Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. The ceremony kicked off at the iconic San Siro Stadium, marking a historic occasion for the nation.
Mattarella’s Grand Entrance
The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, surprised attendees with his arrival in a vintage tram, driven by legendary motorcycle champion Valentino Rossi. The tram, known as No. 26, symbolically referenced 2026, the year of the games.
In a video presentation, Mattarella shared the ride with athletes and musicians from La Scala, enhancing the festive atmosphere. As the tram reached the stadium, applause erupted from the crowd, highlighting the significance of the moment.
Ceremony Highlights
- The opening ceremony received a warm welcome with over 61,000 spectators in attendance.
- Kirsty Coventry, President of the IOC, acknowledged President Mattarella amid enthusiastic applause.
- Giorgia Meloni, the Italian Prime Minister, expressed her support for the athletes, urging them to compete with heart.
- Giovanni Malagò, President of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Foundation, spoke about Italy’s rich cultural heritage.
Athletes Take the Stage
Flag bearers Arianna Fontana and Federico Pellegrino led the Azzurri athletes during the grand parade, accompanied by the lively tunes from “Il Barbiere di Siviglia.” Cheers erupted in honor of the Italian delegation, while notable moments included booing directed at U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and a rousing ovation for Ukrainian athletes.
International Participation
Countries from around the globe participated with enthusiasm. The opening parade featured:
- Greece presenting first
- Italy closing the event with vibrant energy
- Applause for the Jamaican delegation performing their iconic dance
- The Philippines, represented by Francis Ceccarelli, and Japan’s warm reception
Performances and Artistic Flair
International stars graced the stage, with Mariah Carey performing classic hits and Laura Pausini singing the Italian national anthem. The ceremony was further enriched by tributes to icons like Giorgio Armani and Raffaella Carrà, with elaborate displays of light and art showcasing Italy’s cultural depth.
Reception at Palazzo Reale
Before the main event, President Mattarella hosted a reception for heads of state at Palazzo Reale, including key political figures such as Giorgia Meloni and Antonio Guterres. This gathering reinforced Italy’s hospitality and diplomatic ties while fostering a sense of unity as the games commenced.
Inauguration of Casa Italia
Earlier in the day, President Mattarella inaugurated Casa Italia at the Triennale in Milan, describing it as an embodiment of Italian culture and lifestyle. This venue serves as a gateway to Italy during the Winter Olympics, enhancing the nation’s presence on the international sporting stage.
The inaugural event for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics showcased a blend of sports, culture, and celebration, setting a vibrant tone for the games ahead.
