Italian President Sergio Mattarella has officially declared the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics open.
The traditional Olympic declaration marked the official start of the XXVI Olympic Winter Games, with Italy serving as host nation for the third time in Olympic history. President Mattarella delivered the ceremonial words during the Opening Ceremony, following the time-honored protocol that sees the host country's head of state formally open each Olympic Games.
Milano Cortina 2026 represents a unique dual-city hosting model, with events split between the fashion capital of Milan and the Alpine resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo. This marks Italy's return to hosting the Winter Olympics after Turin 2006, and continues the country's proud Olympic tradition that began with Rome 1960.
Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony
The Opening Ceremony showcased Italy's rich cultural heritage and passion for winter sports. As per Olympic tradition, the formal declaration by the head of state serves as the pivotal moment when the Games officially begin, allowing competition to commence across all venues.
The ceremony took place with the backdrop of Italy's stunning Alpine landscape, setting the stage for two weeks of world-class winter sports competition. Athletes from around the globe will now compete across multiple disciplines in both Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
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With the Games now officially open, Italy joins the exclusive group of nations to have hosted the Winter Olympics multiple times. The country's experience from Turin 2006 provides valuable expertise for organizing another successful Winter Games, while the Milano Cortina partnership offers a fresh approach to Olympic hosting.
Competition will now begin across all winter sports disciplines, with medals to be awarded in events ranging from Alpine Skiing to Biathlon, Ski Jumping, and Snowboard.
