The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games officially began on Friday. Organizers staged a vibrant opening ceremony that spanned four different locations across Italy.
Critics initially raised concerns about the logistics of such a complex event. Nevertheless, the production proved impressive and proceeded without a hitch. It successfully united the iconic San Siro stadium in Milan with the snowy peaks of Cortina, Livigno, and Predazzo.
Here are the highlights from a historic night that celebrated Italian beauty, fashion, and the Olympic spirit.
A Night of Stars: Bocelli and Carey Shine
The ceremony offered a feast for the ears as well as the eyes. For instance, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli delivered a spine-tingling rendition of Nessun Dorma. He sang as the Olympic torch made its entrance into the San Siro.
Meanwhile, global superstar Mariah Carey stunned the crowd. She wore a sparkling white outfit while performing a dazzling version of Volare.
Tributes and Firsts
Creative director Marco Balich centered the show around the principle of “armonia” (harmony). Furthermore, the event paid a touching tribute to the legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani. He passed away in 2025 at the age of 91.
History also unfolded at the podium. Finally, Kirsty Coventry, the first female president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), declared the Games open.
“The spirit of the Olympic Games is about so much more than sport. It is about us – and what makes us human,” Coventry told the athletes. “This is the magic of the Olympic Games: inspiring us all to be the best that we can be, together.”
The Parade of Nations
The atmosphere turned electric as the athletes marched in.
- Team Italy received a rapturous welcome as the hosts.
- Ukraine and Team USA also garnered loud cheers. However, the appearance of US Vice-President JD Vance on the big screen drew some boos.
- Great Britain arrived with figure skater Lilah Fear leading in Milan. Simultaneously, bobsledder Brad Hall carried the flag in Cortina.
Two Cauldrons, One Flame
Reflecting the dual-city nature of these Games, officials lit two separate Olympic cauldrons. One burned in Milan, while the other glowed in Cortina. Consequently, this symbolized the strong connection between the urban center and the mountain ranges.
Now that the ceremony has concluded, the focus shifts to the ice and snow. Athletes will compete for the first five gold medals of the Games this Saturday.day.
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