Did the Torch Relay for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games Start in Rome?
Synopsis
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games torch relay has officially begun in Rome, starting a two-month journey through Italy. Over 10,000 torchbearers will participate in this historic event, which will visit iconic landmarks and culminate in a grand celebration. Don't miss this exciting journey leading up to the Winter Games!
Key Takeaways
The torch relay for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games has officially started.
It will cover 12,000 kilometers across Italy over 60 days.
The relay will visit over 300 municipalities and 60 cities.
Notable torchbearers include Olympic champions from various sports.
The relay will conclude at Milan's San Siro Stadium on February 6, 2026.
Rome, Dec 6 (NationPress) The torch relay for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games commenced on Saturday morning in Rome, signaling the start of a two-month journey leading up to next year's grand opening ceremony. The ceremonial event took place at the Stadio dei Marmi, an outdoor arena adorned with Roman-style statues adjacent to Rome's Olympic Stadium.
At approximately 9:50 a.m., Giancarlo Peris, the final torchbearer from the 1960 Rome Games, carried the flame onto the launch stage. A torch was ignited with this flame, as Giovanni Malago, president of the Milan-Cortina 2026 organizing committee, used it to light the cauldron.
The first torchbearer, Italy's Olympic champion Gregorio Paltrinieri, took the relay torch from the cauldron and ran a half-lap around the stadium amidst cheers from the crowd, officially kicking off the relay, as reported by Xinhua.
Italian fencer Elisa Di Francisca and high jump Olympic champion Gianmarco Tamberi followed as the second and third torchbearers, completing their segments inside the stadium. Tamberi shared a torch kiss with the next runner, Achille Polonara, who then carried the flame out of the stadium to begin the route through the city.
The relay in the 'Eternal City' will pass by significant landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Venezia.
It is anticipated that the torch will reach Piazza del Popolo around 7:30 p.m., where a city celebration featuring music and artistic performances will coincide with the event.
The relay will cover a distance of 12,000 kilometers over 60 days across Italy, visiting more than 300 municipalities and featuring celebrations in 60 cities, reaching all 110 Italian provinces while illuminating UNESCO sites along the way.
Over 10,000 torchbearers from various backgrounds will participate in the relay, including representatives from sports, culture, film, and civil society.
The flame will experience Christmas in Naples, New Year in Bari, and will return to Cortina d'Ampezzo on January 26, 2026, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Games opening ceremony. The relay is set to conclude on February 6 at Milan's San Siro Stadium.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the torch relay for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. This event not only celebrates athletic excellence but also unites communities across Italy, showcasing our rich heritage and the spirit of the Olympic movement.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the torch relay?
The torch relay symbolizes the unity and spirit of the Olympic Games, bringing communities together and celebrating athletic excellence.
How long will the relay last?
The torch relay will last for 60 days, covering a distance of 12,000 kilometers across Italy.
Who are some notable torchbearers?
Notable torchbearers include Olympic champions Gregorio Paltrinieri, Elisa Di Francisca, and Gianmarco Tamberi.
What landmarks will the relay pass?
The relay will pass by significant landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Venezia.
When will the relay conclude?
The relay will conclude on February 6, 2026, at Milan's San Siro Stadium.
