The 2026 Winter Olympics officially commenced with a spectacular opening ceremony held simultaneously in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The event, a vibrant celebration of Italian culture, art, and innovation, featured a star-studded lineup, a unique dual cauldron lighting, and moments of both unity and protest.
The opening ceremony was a feast for the senses, paying homage to Italy’s rich cultural tapestry. Performers brought to life iconic Italian figures, from Renaissance artists to culinary symbols like coffee makers. The fashion industry, synonymous with Milan, was also celebrated with tributes to designers like Giorgio Armani. The ceremony’s theme, “Harmony,” underscored a message of peace and unity, amplified by a powerful speech from actress Charlize Theron, a UN Peace Ambassador.
American pop icon Mariah Carey was a highlight of the evening, performing a rendition of “Nel blu, dipinto di Blu” (Volare) in Italian, followed by her hit “Nothing Is Impossible.” While her performance was widely praised, speculation arose regarding whether she lip-synced. Organizers confirmed that pre-recordings are standard practice for high-level broadcasts to ensure technical precision, but did not explicitly confirm if Carey’s performance was live or pre-recorded. Carey herself expressed that performing at the Olympics was “a dream come true.”
A historic moment occurred with the lighting of two Olympic cauldrons simultaneously – one in Milan and another in Cortina. This innovative approach symbolized the co-hosting nature of the Games. The ceremony also featured a poignant message of peace delivered by Charlize Theron, drawing inspiration from Nelson Mandela, and a performance of “Nessun Dorma” by Andrea Bocelli that evoked memories of past Italian sporting triumphs.
The Parade of Nations saw enthusiastic cheers for many delegations, with Ukraine receiving a particularly strong ovation. However, the ceremony was not without its political undertones. Athletes from Israel faced boos from some sections of the crowd, reflecting ongoing global tensions. Similarly, U.S. Vice President JD Vance was met with jeers when his image appeared on screen, a reaction linked to protests against U.S. immigration policies occurring in Milan.
While the broadcast aimed to capture the grandeur, live attendees experienced additional elements. A preshow DJ and dance instruction created a festive atmosphere before the main event. The stadium, though appearing packed on television, had noticeable empty seats. Performers like Mariah Carey’s slow entrance from the stadium’s corner and the quick sprint of a crew to the stage were details more apparent to those present. Athletes, even after their parade, mingled and took photos, embodying the Olympic spirit.