By FIPE
The journey of the Olympic flame for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games began today. The relay departed this morning from the Foro Italico and will cross Italy for 63 days, covering 12,000 km. The relay, inaugurated by Olympian Gregorio Paltrinieri, also included FIPE President Alberto Miglietta:
“For those like me who had the pleasure of participating in Italy’s victorious bid to host the next Winter Olympics, having the honor of being among the first torchbearers and carrying the Olympic torch with my own hands is a rare feeling. Italian sport is a world-class sport, and representing it today was a true joy. Opening the door and kicking off the Milan-Cortina Olympics was a thrill as well as a great honor.”
The passing of the Flame, a universal symbol of peace, unity, and Olympic values, will be a source of inspiration for communities and young people, leaving a legacy designed to create a cohesive and inclusive society. “There will be 10,001 torches, but a single flame, testifying to the passion and desire to be a protagonist for an entire country. The Games are a return to the image of the entire country,” said CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio, who opened the historic event. “Sport teaches us to get up and celebrate new goals,” said Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 President Giovanni Malagò, “ like this one that unites us in a magical dream.”