Is the Olympic Torch Relay Cauldron for Milan-Cortina 2026 Lit in Italy?
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Synopsis
Join us as we celebrate the lighting of the Olympic torch relay cauldron for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in Rome. This event marks a significant step towards the upcoming games, with messages of peace and unity resonating through the ceremony, led by prominent figures including Italian President Sergio Mattarella and IOC President Kirsty Coventry.
Key Takeaways
- Italian President Sergio Mattarella lit the Olympic torch relay cauldron in Rome.
- The event was attended by prominent figures including Kirsty Coventry and Giorgia Meloni.
- The relay will cover 12,000 kilometers across Italy.
- More than 10,000 torchbearers will participate in the relay.
- The relay will conclude on February 6, 2026, at Milan's San Siro Stadium.
On December 6, in the vibrant city of Rome, Italian President Sergio Mattarella ignited the torch relay celebration cauldron for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. The ceremonial lighting occurred at Piazza del Quirinale, where Mattarella utilized the Olympic torch to illuminate the celebration cauldron. Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee, along with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other dignitaries, graced the occasion, as reported by Xinhua.
During her address, Coventry remarked that the flame represents the authentic essence of the Olympic Games, aimed at uniting individuals, dismantling barriers, inspiring future generations, and thriving in an environment where all athletes can compete free from discrimination.
"The Milano-Cortina Games will mark the inaugural event of my presidency, and I am committed to ensuring its success for the athletes, for Italians, and for our Olympic movement. We anticipate these Games will inspire the global community," she stated.
President Mattarella conveyed his aspiration that the Winter Olympics would convey a message of peace worldwide.
"The Olympic and Paralympic Games are global spectacles that offer a profound voice to humanity. They embody a rich history, both ancient and modern, with the ethos of peace woven into their foundation since inception. Now, more than ever, we yearn for camaraderie and peace among people," he articulated.
The celebration cauldron will be open for public viewing until early afternoon, after which the flame will be moved to the headquarters of the Italian National Olympic Committee in preparation for the torch relay, commencing Saturday morning.
The flame arrived at Fiumicino Airport in Rome on Thursday afternoon, where it was subsequently handed to Mattarella, marking the initiation of the official program leading to the Olympic torch relay.
The relay will cover an impressive 12,000 kilometers in 60 days across Italy, visiting over 300 municipalities and featuring festivities in 60 cities, illuminating all 110 Italian provinces and UNESCO sites along the way.
More than 10,000 torchbearers from diverse sectors, including sports, culture, film, and civil society, will participate in the relay.
The flame will celebrate Christmas in Naples, ring in the New Year in Bari, and return to Cortina d'Ampezzo on January 26, 2026, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Games opening ceremony. The relay will conclude on February 6 at Milan's San Siro Stadium.
Point of View
We recognize the Olympic Games as a beacon of hope and unity in today's divided world. The lighting of the cauldron symbolizes more than just the commencement of a sporting event; it represents our collective aspiration for peace and camaraderie. This event is a pivotal moment for Italy, and we stand firmly behind the spirit of the Olympics, promoting inclusivity and inspiration for future generations.
NationPress
06/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Olympic torch relay?
The Olympic torch relay symbolizes the unity and spirit of the Olympic Games, bringing people together and inspiring future generations.
When will the torch relay start?
The torch relay is set to commence on Saturday morning following the lighting ceremony.
How long will the torch relay last?
The relay will span 60 days, covering 12,000 kilometers across Italy.
Where will the relay pass through?
The relay will traverse over 300 municipalities, feature celebrations in 60 cities, and illuminate all 110 Italian provinces.
Who is participating in the torch relay?
Over 10,000 torchbearers from various fields, including sports, culture, and civil society, will take part in the relay.
