Full Breakdown
Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Torch Relay Begins
12/6/2025, 9:01:22 PM
Torch Relay Launch in Rome
The torch relay for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics commenced on December 6, 2025, in Rome, marking exactly two months before the opening ceremony scheduled for February 6, 2026. Olympic swimming champion Gregorio Paltrinieri was the first torchbearer, igniting the flame at the Stadio dei Marmi, an arena adorned with Roman-style statues. The relay will cover a distance of 12,000 kilometers (nearly 7,500 miles) across all 110 Italian provinces, culminating at Milan’s San Siro Stadium.
The event began with Giancarlo Peris, the final torchbearer from the 1960 Rome Olympics, lighting the cauldron. Paltrinieri expressed his pride in participating, stating, “It’s a pleasure to be part of the Olympic movement, even if it’s Winter Olympics.” Following him, retired fencer Elisa Di Francisca and high jump champion Gianmarco Tamberi continued the relay, which will include 10,001 torchbearers over 63 days.
Route and Celebrations
The torch relay will traverse through major Italian cities, including Naples and Bari, with celebrations planned in 60 cities. It will pass by significant landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter's Square before concluding its Rome segment at Piazza del Popolo. The relay is designed to highlight Italy's rich cultural heritage, as it will illuminate numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites along its route.
Local organizing committee president Giovanni Malagò emphasized the relay's significance, describing it as “like a giant two-month celebration.” The torch is expected to reach Turin, the host of the 2006 Winter Olympics, on January 11, and will arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo on January 26, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Olympics.
Venue Preparations and Ticket Sales
Despite the excitement surrounding the torch relay, concerns remain regarding the readiness of the venues. Andrea Varnier, CEO of the organizing committee, acknowledged that significant work is still needed, particularly at the Santa Giulia arena in Milan, which is set to host ice hockey events. A key test event for this venue is scheduled for January 9-11, 2026.
As of now, approximately 850,000 of the 1.4 million available tickets have been sold. Varnier noted that ticket sales are progressing well, with recent promotions generating interest. “We had some tickets on the market a couple of days ago and they were sold out in just a couple of hours,” he remarked.
Official Statements & Responses
Giovanni Malagò highlighted the honor of receiving the Olympic flame, stating, “To stand here in this historic stadium provides an inspiring reminder of the honor we have been granted.” Andrea Varnier reassured that despite the delays, the preparations are on track, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming weeks.
Criticism & Opposition
While the organizing committee remains optimistic, critics have pointed out the ongoing construction delays and the need for more robust ticket sales. Concerns about the readiness of the venues have been voiced, particularly regarding the Santa Giulia arena, which is crucial for the ice hockey tournament.
What's Next
The torch relay will continue through various cities, with the next stops in Viterbo and Terni. The relay will culminate in Milan on February 6, 2026, coinciding with the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.
