Olympic Torch's Epic Journey: From Rome to Milan

The Olympic flame began its journey in Rome, embarking on a two-month relay across Italy ahead of the 2026 Winter Games. The torch traverses through landmarks and cities, involving thousands of torchbearers before concluding in Milan for the games’ opening ceremony, highlighting Italy's historic connection to the Olympics.

The Olympic flame set out on its journey from Rome this Saturday, initiating a nationwide relay across Italy for the upcoming 2026 Winter Games. The torch, ignited in ancient Olympia and handed to Italian organizers, left Rome's historic Stadio dei Marmi to kindle enthusiasm across the country.

Italy's decorated swimmer, Gregorio Paltrinieri, was the first to carry the torch, beginning its 12,000-kilometer journey through Italy. The event saw participation from notable athletes like Achille Polonara, who, amidst a personal battle with leukaemia, joined the historic relay, expressing hope and gratitude for the opportunity.

The torch will journey through all 110 provinces, passing iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Venice's Grand Canal, before its arrival in Milan for the February 6 opening ceremony. Italy anticipates this as a moment of national unity and pride, linking its robust Olympic legacy with future aspirations.

(With inputs from agencies.)