The opening ceremony of the XXV Winter Olympic Games 2026 took place at the “San Siro” stadium in Milan, becoming a true celebration for sports and culture enthusiasts.
This is reported by Finway
A Vibrant Start to the Olympics: Art, Music, and Star Guests
The Olympic opening began with an exciting journey through the history and culture of Italy. Guests at the ceremony witnessed a theatrical reenactment of the famous myth of Cupid and Psyche, while dancers in costumes resembling musical notes paid tribute to the great Italian composers Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Gioachino Rossini. The conductor was the renowned Italian actress Matilda De Angelis.
Among the honored guests at the ceremony was U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who was alongside former IOC President Thomas Bach. A highlight of the evening was the performance by American singer Mariah Carey, who sang the Italian hit “Nel blu dipinto di blu (Volare).”
“Models walked out in Armani outfits and in the colors of the Italian flag in memory of the legendary Giorgio Armani, who passed away just months before the Olympics.”
The Italian national anthem was performed at the stadium by Golden Globe winner Laura Pausini. The central part of the show featured a radiant illumination of the Olympic rings, symbolizing the start of the sporting festival.
Parade of Athletes and Official Start of the Games
As tradition dictates, the first athletes to enter the arena were from Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic movement. The Ukrainian flag was carried at the ceremony by short track skater Yelyzaveta Sydyorko. Impressive delegations from Norway and Germany followed, and the parade concluded with the hosts from Italy.
The second part of the show was titled “Journey Through Time,” after which speeches were delivered by Giovanni Malago, president of the 2026 Games organizing committee, and Kirsty Coventry, president of the IOC. Italian President Sergio Mattarella officially declared the XXV Winter Olympics open. The famous Andrea Bocelli performed the aria “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s opera “Turandot,” under which the Olympic flame appeared in the stadium.
Hollywood actress Charlize Theron delivered a speech on the necessity of peace in the world. The Olympic flame was lit in Milan and Cortina, officially marking the start of the 2026 Games!
It is noted that some competitions have already begun, and the race for the first Olympic medals will start on February 7 – ahead lies a busy schedule of finals for athletes and fans alike.