The Olympic Flame Stops in Rome
Milan-Cortina Olympics: The Olympic Flame Stops in Rome for Four Days. Full Itinerary and Program
The Olympic flame for the XXV Winter Olympic Games Milano–Cortina 2026 will pass through Rome, where it will remain for four days, bringing events, celebrations, and cultural initiatives dedicated to the Olympic spirit. The relay will officially begin in Italy’s capital before heading north to San Siro for the Opening Ceremony on February 6, 2026.
A Historic Stop in the Capital
The flame will be lit on November 26 in Olympia, Greece, as tradition dictates, before starting a 12,000-kilometer journey across countries and cities on its way to Italy. As an enduring symbol of sport and unity, its passage through Rome represents a celebratory moment for the entire nation.
The Program in Detail (December 4–7)
Arrival and Ceremonies
The torch will arrive in Rome on the evening of Thursday, December 4, just ahead of one of the key events: the lighting of the cauldron in Piazza del Quirinale, scheduled for the morning of Friday, December 5.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella, along with other national authorities, will attend the ceremony. Afterward, the flame will be displayed to the public until the afternoon.
In the evening, celebrations will continue with a special concert at the Stadio dei Marmi, honoring the arrival of the flame in the Eternal City.
The Torch’s Journey Through Rome
The official relay will begin on Saturday, December 6. In the morning, the flame will set off on its city route, approximately 33 kilometers, with final details still being defined, accompanied by a dedicated convoy.
In the afternoon, the flame will reach Piazza del Popolo, where an open village will welcome residents, visitors, sports fans, and families for activities and Olympic-themed entertainment.
Final Day in the Capital
On Sunday, December 7, a day with traffic restrictions in place, the flame will continue its journey toward the EUR district and later Ostia, where it will make a brief public stop before departing the city.
Rome marks only the beginning of a 63-day journey, culminating on February 6, 2026, when the flame will enter San Siro Stadium in Milan for the official opening of the Winter Games.
First Torchbearers Announced
The Milano–Cortina Organizing Committee has revealed the names of the first three torchbearers who will carry the flame in Italy:
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Achille Lauro, singer and performer
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Flavia Pennetta, former tennis champion and US Open winner
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Francesco Bagnaia, MotoGP world champion
Their participation symbolizes the blend of music, sport, and national pride that the relay hopes to inspire.


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