Chciago – February 07, 2026
Milan, Italy – The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics launched spectacularly on February 6 at San Siro Stadium, marking the first multi-venue opening ceremony in Olympic history. Spanning Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno, and Predazzo, the event themed “Armonia” (Harmony) celebrated Italy’s art, innovation, and unity between city and mountains over 3.5 hours.
Directed by Marco Balich, the show opened with tributes to Antonio Canova and composers like Puccini, featuring dancers and paint releases symbolizing creativity. Mariah Carey performed “Nel blu, dipinto di blu” and “Nothing Is Impossible,” joined by Laura Pausini on the national anthem, Cecilia Bartoli, Lang Lang, and Andrea Bocelli’s “Nessun dorma.”
The Parade of Nations from 93 countries preceded speeches by IOC President Kirsty Coventry and Games chief Giovanni Malagò. Italian President Sergio Mattarella declared the Games open, followed by dual cauldrons lit by alpine legends Deborah Compagnoni, Alberto Tomba, and Sofia Goggia at Arco della Pace and Piazza Angelo Dibona.
Critics hailed the artistic segments and performances, drawing 9.2 million Italian viewers.
