The countdown to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games has begun with the official announcement of the route of the Olympic torch. Under the slogan ‘The Greatest Journey’, the Olympic flame will cross Italy’s 110 provinces on a route that promises to spark enthusiasm and unity throughout the country.
The journey, which will span 63 days and 12,000 kilometres, will culminate with the opening ceremony on 6 February 2026, marking a historic moment for Italy as the host of this prestigious sporting event.
A TRADITIONAL START IN GREECE
The journey will begin on 26 November 2025 in Olympia, Greece, with the traditional lighting of the torch at the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The flame will then travel to Italy, landing in Rome on 4 December 2025, where it will begin its national journey.
More than 10,000 torchbearers will join together to carry the flame throughout the Italian regions, highlighting the community spirit and passion for Olympic values.
CHRISTMAS IN NAPLES AND NEW YEAR IN BARI
One of the highlights will be the torch’s passage through Naples on 25 December, where it will bring a festive atmosphere at the height of Christmas. A few days later, the flame will celebrate the arrival of the New Year in the city of Bari, illuminating the beginning of 2026 with a message of hope and unity.
These special moments reflect the organisers’ intention to connect the essence of the Games with local traditions and culture, creating indelible memories for the host communities.
TRIBUTE TO CORTINA D’AMPEZZO
On 26 January 2026, the flame will arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo in a special tribute to the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Olympic Games held in this historic location. This event will mark a symbolic bridge between the past and the future of Olympic sport in Italy.
The route not only highlights Cortina’s sporting legacy, but also reinforces its relevance as one of the main venues for the next Winter Games.
A ROUTE THAT UNITES ITALY
With stops in 60 cities and towns, the torch route seeks to include all regions of Italy, from the mountains to the coasts, reinforcing a sense of unity and national pride. This inclusive approach celebrates the cultural and geographical diversity of the host country.
The organising committee has carefully designed the route to ensure that the Olympic spirit reaches every corner of Italy, inviting citizens to be an active part of this unique journey.
