Summary
Italy started the torch relay for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Rome. The relay will travel across Italy before the Games begin in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo on February 6, 2026. The relay involves over 10,000 torchbearers and will visit key locations, including UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Key Facts
- The torch relay began on December 4, 2025, in Rome with a ceremony at Stadio dei Marmi.
- Giancarlo Peris, a notable runner from the 1960 Rome Olympics, handed the torch to start the relay.
- The relay will cover nearly 7,500 miles across all of Italy's provinces.
- More than 10,000 torchbearers, including both Olympians and public figures, will carry the torch.
- The flame will visit all 61 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy.
- The relay concludes in Milan just before the Games start on February 6, 2026.
- Notable figures like Italy's Sport Minister Andrea Abodi attended the opening event.
- The relay aims to promote the Olympic ideals of peace and unity.
