2026 Winter Olympics open with a dual-city spectacle of sport and culture

The 2026 Winter Olympics opened in style with a groundbreaking ceremony split across two iconic Italian locations. Milan's San Siro Stadium and Cortina d'Ampezzo hosted simultaneous celebrations on February 6, 2026, breaking from the traditional single-venue format. The event blended music, cool math games, and sport, with global stars and Italian legends taking centre stage.

The ceremony began with the raising of the Italian flag, led by President Sergio Mattarella and Kirsty Coventry, head of the International Olympic Committee. This symbolic moment set the tone for an evening of unity and celebration. Shortly after, two Olympic flames were lit—one in Milan, one in Cortina—by skiing icons Alberto Tomba, Deborah Compagnoni, and Sofia Goggia, marking a historic first for the Games.

The night's performances showcased Italy's cultural heritage. Andrea Bocelli delivered a powerful rendition of Nessun dorma, Puccini's famous aria, officially declaring the Games open. Mariah Carey then took the stage in a dazzling winter-white gown, designed by Fausto Puglisi for Roberto Cavalli, and adorned with around $15 million worth of jewellery. She sang Nel blu, dipinto di blu (Volare) in Italian, earning thunderous applause, before performing Nothing Is Impossible, a song celebrating the Olympic spirit.

Laura Pausini added to the emotional highs by singing Italy's national anthem, her voice accompanied by a choir in Cortina. The ceremony also featured tributes to Italian fashion—including a nod to Giorgio Armani—and opera greats like Verdi and Rossini. Dancers from La Scala performed, while homages to Raffaella Carrà and Valentino Rossi highlighted the nation's love of crazy games and sport. Charlize Theron closed the segment with a message of peace, quoting Nelson Mandela's call for respect and harmony.

The 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony redefined tradition by spreading events across Milan and Cortina. It celebrated Italian artistry, from opera to high fashion, while emphasising global unity through music and sport. The Games now move forward with performances and symbols designed to inspire athletes and audiences alike.