Rome, December 08, 2025
The Olympic flame for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games arrived in Rome on December 4, marking the official start of a nationwide torch relay across Italy that symbolizes unity, peace, and the Olympic spirit ahead of the Games opening in early February 2026.
Flame Arrival and Reception
The flame was brought to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, secured within a protective lantern. It was received by prominent Italian figures, including Olympic tennis champion Jasmine Paolini and Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan-Cortina 2026 organizing committee. The flame was subsequently presented to Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace, underscoring its ceremonial and symbolic importance for the nation.
Ceremonial Lighting and Official Endorsements
On December 5, the official flame lighting ceremony took place, attended by key dignitaries: President Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry. In his remarks, President Mattarella emphasized the Olympic core values of unity and inspiration and called for a commitment to global peace, reinforcing the wider significance of the relay beyond the sporting context.
Commencement and Scope of Torch Relay
The relay officially commenced on December 6 at Stadio dei Marmi in Rome, featuring several distinguished Italian athletes, including swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri, fencer Elisa Di Francisca, high jumper Gianmarco Tamberi, and tennis player Matteo Berrettini. The journey will cover approximately 12,000 kilometers over 60 days, reaching more than 300 municipalities, all 110 Italian provinces, and showcasing numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites. This extensive route reflects both the geographical diversity and cultural heritage of Italy.
Sustainability and Design of the Torches
The torches, named “Essential,” highlight a sustainability focus. They are the first in Olympic history to receive the ReMade Class A certification for integrating recycled materials. The minimalist design aligns with contemporary environmental values, signaling a commitment by the Milan-Cortina organizers to eco-friendly practices.
Symbolism and Broader Impact
Beyond its physical journey, the flame embodies the spirit of sportsmanship, national pride, and international unity as thousands of torchbearers and regional celebrations engage communities nationwide. The relay promotes not only the upcoming Winter Olympics but also Italy’s rich cultural narrative and emphasis on ecological responsibility.
Contextual Background
The relay will culminate in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, the host cities for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, coinciding with the Games’ opening ceremonies in February 2026. The event will provide a platform to highlight prominent Italian athletes and reinforce Italy’s role on the global Olympic stage.
The Milan-Cortina 2026 torch relay thus represents a multifaceted initiative that blends tradition, athletic achievement, cultural pride, and sustainability, setting the tone for an Olympic Games defined by unity and environmental consciousness.