Olympic Flame Takes Flight — Torch Travels from Athens to Italy on Road to Milano-Cortina 2026

Flame Handed Over in Athens

At the historic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens — the birthplace of the first modern Olympics — the flame for the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Games was formally handed to the Italian delegation in an emotional ceremony.

The flame, lit days earlier at Ancient Olympia through the traditional sun-ray ritual, was carried by prominent Italian athletes, including newly crowned champions who symbolized the hopes of the host nation.

Italy Prepares for a 63-Day, 12,000-Kilometer Relay

After arriving in Rome, the flame begins a nationwide relay on 6 December, travelling through all 20 Italian regions, 110 provinces, and more than 300 towns and cities.

The journey is designed not only to showcase Italy’s landscape and heritage, but also to connect communities from the Alps to Sicily. Organizers describe it as a “moving festival” that brings the Olympic spirit directly to the streets, piazzas and historical landmarks of the country.

Florence Welcomes the Torch

Among the most anticipated stops is Florence. The flame will arrive in the Renaissance capital on 11 December, where residents and visitors will gather in Piazza Santissima Annunziata for an evening cauldron-lighting ceremony.

The torch — named “Essenziale” — was designed by architect Carlo Ratti using brass and aluminum, reflecting Italy’s tradition of craftsmanship and minimal, elegant design.

More Than a Relay

Beyond the symbolism, this torch relay serves as a reminder of what the Olympics represent: unity, continuity, and shared human heritage.

As the flame moves from Greece to Italy and across the peninsula, it carries a message of resilience and togetherness — a fitting overture for the Winter Games that will open in February 2026.