Olympic Flame Ignites Journey Across Italy for 2026 Winter Games

The Olympic flame has begun its journey across Italy, igniting at the Quirinale Palace in Rome before traveling to various regions in preparation for the 2026 Winter Games. Hosted by Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, the relay highlights Italy's passion for sports and its rich cultural heritage.

The Olympic flame flared into life under the cloudy skies of Italy's presidential palace square on Friday, marking the starting point of its journey across the country before the 2026 Winter Games. The torch, ignited last month in Olympia, was handed over to Italian organizers in Athens and displayed at the Quirinale Palace.

In a ceremonial event attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry, the flame was kindled in a cauldron at Piazza del Quirinale. Mattarella called for the renewal of the Olympic truce, emphasizing the need for global friendship and peace amid turbulent times.

Tourists witnessed Italy's Frecce Tricolori aerobatics team perform a flypast over the 16th-century Quirinale Palace, signaling the start of the flame's journey across Italy. The 12,000-km relay will pass through 20 regions and 60 cities, showcasing Italy's love for sports and cultural vibrancy as it prepares to co-host the Winter Games in 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)