The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics officially began today with a dazzling opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium, marking the start of what will be the most geographically spread Games in history. From Milan’s bustling streets to the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, athletes will compete across four stunning venues this year.
The ceremony, starting at 1900 GMT, promises a three-hour extravaganza celebrating Italy’s unique blend of modern design, culture, and sportsmanship. The theme of harmony runs through every detail, uniting Italy’s economic heartbeat in Milan with the alpine beauty of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno, and Predazzo, where 2,900 athletes will parade near their competition venues for the first time.
Creative director Marco Balich, who also directed the Turin 2006 Winter Olympics opener, says the show will honor Italian fashion and design, including a tribute to the late Giorgio Armani. “The ceremony will tell the story of a young and modern Italy, looking toward the future,” Balich said.
The spectacle will feature performances by Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, and Lang Lang, while dignitaries including US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio join global leaders to witness the festivities. IOC President Kirsty Coventry, attending her first Winter Games since March, emphasized the importance of keeping distractions aside for the February 6–22 event.
Despite minor controversies, including the role of US ICE agents and athlete protests, the Olympics are set to celebrate diversity, hope, and unity. Snowboard champion Chloe Kim shared her pride on Instagram, highlighting her family’s journey from South Korea to the United States and the values of inclusion and opportunity that the Games represent.
The Olympic flame reached Milan yesterday, with organizers keeping the final torchbearers a secret until the ceremony. Two cauldrons, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s knots, will light up Milan and Cortina simultaneously. Rumors suggest legendary Italian skiers Alberto Tomba and Deborah Compagnoni may carry the honor.
The competitions are already underway, from curling to women’s ice hockey. While the Canada-Finland game faced a postponement due to illness, the USA opened strong with a 5-1 victory over the Czech Republic. Meanwhile, American ski legend Lindsey Vonn, 41, is set for a dramatic comeback in Cortina after a recent knee injury, proving that determination knows no age.
At its heart, the Milan-Cortina Olympics are more than just medals—they’re a global celebration of humanity, resilience, and dreams coming true. For athletes and fans alike, these Games are a reminder that sport can inspire, unite, and uplift across borders.
