The Olympic flame for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games is set to embark on a remarkable 63-day journey, traversing all 110 provinces in Italy before igniting the ceremonial cauldron. Organizers unveiled the planned route for the torch relay during a recent press event held in a palace with a view of the historic Verona Arena, which will serve as the backdrop for both the closing ceremony of the Winter Games and the opening of the Paralympics.
The announcement detailing the extensive 12,000-kilometer (7,455-mile) relay was made precisely one year prior to the lighting of the Olympic flame in Ancient Olympia, Greece. Andrea Varnier, the CEO of the Milan-Cortina organizing committee, emphasized the significance of the torch relay, stating, “This is a crucial moment as it brings the spirit of the Olympics right into homes, allowing the magic of winter sports to resonate throughout Italy.” He noted that this initiative is unique as it ensures the Olympics reach millions from their own neighborhoods.
The torch is scheduled to arrive in Rome on December 4, and will commence its Italian tour just two days later. A total of 10,001 individuals will partake in this vibrant celebration. The relay will flow through Tuscany, then make its way to the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, returning to the mainland of Italy by December 19. Key town celebrations are planned as the torch travels, with a notable stop in Naples for Christmas and in Bari for New Year’s Eve. Following its journey up the eastern part of the country, it will traverse to the northwest, reaching Torino on January 11, which was the host of the last Olympic Games in Italy in 2006.
During its stay in Piedmont, a special tribute will be held for Italian skier Matilde Lorenzi, who tragically passed away last month at the young age of 19 due to a training accident. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Italian Olympic Committee and head of the organizing committee for the Milan-Cortina Games, mentioned that there would be a heartfelt acknowledgment of her memory, noting that it had been her aspiration to compete in these Olympics.
The flame will arrive in Verona on January 18, proceeding to Cortina d’Ampezzo eight days later—significantly aligning with the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Olympics opening ceremony held in the same location. Ultimately, the torch will culminate its journey at Milan’s legendary San Siro stadium on February 6, during the opening ceremony of the games.
In February, further information will be provided regarding the process to become a torchbearer. Maria Laura Iascone, the ceremonies director for Milan-Cortina, stated, “We aim to select participants based on their inspiring stories, including those linked to peace, inclusion, and respect.” The events will take place from February 6 to 22 for the Olympic Games, followed by the Paralympics from March 6 to 15. The Paralympic flame will be ignited in Stoke Mandeville, England, and transported by 501 torchbearers.
Giovanni Malagò concluded with an optimistic perspective, expressing that each step taken through the towns will transform into moments of joy and contemplation, illustrating the remarkable influence of sport in fostering unity and dismantling barriers. He noted that the relay would leave an indelible mark on the hearts of many, emphasizing the special warmth and connection that only sport can create. He added, “This Olympic and Paralympic torch relay represents a unique chance for Italy to once again illuminate the global stage.”