San Siro Illuminates as Athletes Parade Beneath Olympic Rings in Milano Cortina

The XXV Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina commenced with a dazzling opening ceremony at San Siro. The event drew the attention of the world as the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, made a surprise entrance, featured in a video riding a historic tram driven by the famed Valentino Rossi. The tram symbolizes Milan and connects to the year of the Games, with Mattarella capturing the essence of Italian culture.

Highlights from the Opening Ceremony

During the event, Mattarella officially declared the Games open. He emphasized the beauty of Italy as a historical responsibility. Giovanni Malagò, the President of the Milan Cortina 2026 Foundation, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The beauty Italian is not ours; it has been entrusted to us by history.” Athletes Arianna Fontana and Federico Pellegrino served as Italy’s flag bearers, captivating the San Siro crowd as they entered to the chorus of “Il Barbiere di Siviglia.”

Notable Appearances and Performances

The ceremony included notable figures such as the President of the Senate and the Prime Minister, while Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, celebrated joyfully. In a parallel celebration, Federica Brignone was seen riding on the shoulders of Amos Mosaner in Cortina.

• Applause greeted the United States team, while some booed U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance.
• The Ukrainian athletes received a standing ovation as their flag bearer paid homage by raising a finger to the sky.
• Performances included Mariah Carey, who sang two iconic tracks, and Laura Pausini, who performed the Italian National Anthem.

The athletes’ parade commenced with the Greeks leading the procession and the Italian team closing it. The Olympic rings illuminated San Siro, creating a breathtaking visual for the audience of 67,000 spectators. The diversity of nations was showcased, including representatives from Jamaica, Guinea, Haiti, and Japan.

Cultural Significance and Celebratory Tributes

The ceremony highlighted Italy’s rich cultural history through tributes to famous composers like Verdi and Puccini, featuring actress Matilda De Angelis conducting. A tribute to the late Raffaella Carrà included a lively performance that got the crowd dancing.

A reception at the Royal Palace preceded the ceremony, attended by multiple state leaders, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres. Mattarella engaged guests in the historic Arazzi Hall, setting a cordial tone before the grand celebration.

Earlier that day, Mattarella inaugurated Casa Italia at the Triennale in Milan, highlighting its role as a gateway into Italian culture. The event marked the first time an Italian president presided over such a ceremony, showcasing the nation’s pride and closeness to the sports community.

Conclusion

The opening of the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina illuminated San Siro not only as a sports venue but as a vibrant tribute to Italy’s culture, unity, and spirit. This celebration of sports and heritage has set an inspiring tone for the competitions ahead, promising unforgettable moments as athletes from around the globe unite in Milan Cortina.