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2026 Winter Olympics Torch Relay Begins in Greece

11/28/2025

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Gaidatzis Ignites Relay

The Olympic flame for the 2026 Winter Games was lit November 26, 2025, in an indoor ceremony at Olympia's archaeological museum due to inclement weather.
Petros Gaidatzis, a Greek rower, was the first torchbearer, launching a relay across Italy to cover 12,000 kilometers and visit 60 cities and 300 towns.
The relay ends at Milan's San Siro Stadium for the opening on February 6, 2026, with 116 medal events.

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USA Unveils Hockey Jerseys

The United States unveiled its Olympic and Paralympic hockey jerseys on November 26, 2025, inspired by the 1960 Olympic team.
The jerseys will be available for purchase starting December 4, featuring white and royal blue options with bold “USA” lettering.
The women's hockey tournament begins on February 5, 2026, and the men's tournament starts on February 11.
Dua Lipa stars in a new NBC Sports ad promoting the Winter Olympics, showcasing female athletes like Lindsey Vonn and Chloe Kim.
U.S. hockey teams will be announced between December 31, 2025, and January 3, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The 1960 Winter Olympics, held from February 18-28 in Squaw Valley, California, were the first to be televised live, showcasing 750 athletes from 30 nations. The U.S. team won 34 medals, including gold in men's ice hockey, marking a significant moment in Olympic history. This legacy influences the upcoming 2026 Winter Games, where U.S. hockey jerseys will honor that historic team.

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Gaidatzis Ignites Relay

The Olympic flame for the 2026 Winter Games was lit November 26, 2025, in an indoor ceremony at Olympia's archaeological museum due to inclement weather.
Petros Gaidatzis, a Greek rower, was the first torchbearer, launching a relay across Italy to cover 12,000 kilometers and visit 60 cities and 300 towns.
The relay ends at Milan's San Siro Stadium for the opening on February 6, 2026, with 116 medal events.

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