The countdown to the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics officially began this week as the iconic Olympic flame was lit in Ancient Olympia, Greece 🇬🇷. The ceremony, held on November 26, 2025, marks the start of a 15-week torch relay before the Games open on February 6, 2026.
Actresses dressed as ancient priestesses ignited the flame using parabolic mirrors and the sun's rays – a tradition dating back to the original Olympic Games 🏛️. This symbolic act kicks off Italy's third Winter Olympics hosting journey, following Cortina d'Ampezzo 1956 and Turin 2006.
Young sports fans worldwide are already buzzing about next year's events, which will feature new disciplines like ski mountaineering 🎿. With 16 competition venues spread across northern Italy's Dolomites region, the Games promise breathtaking alpine backdrops for athletes from over 90 countries and regions.
