The historic 2026 Winter Olympics officially kicked off Friday with the Opening Ceremony and lighting of two cauldrons in Italy.
MILAN, Metropolitan City of Milan — International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry became the first woman to declare the Olympic Games open on Friday.
The historic 2026 Winter Olympics officially kicked off with the Opening Ceremony and lighting of two cauldrons in Italy.
During the ceremony, which was broadcast live and in front of 61,000 ticket-holders plus others inside Milan’s San Siro soccer stadium, the seven-time Olympic medalist gave a speech about unity.
“Let these Games be a celebration of what unites us, and of everything that makes us human, inspiring us all to be the best that we can be — together,” she said. “This magical moment should be an immense source of national pride. For these Games have shown again how, despite all the challenges we face, the cultural and sporting significance of Italy — and of Europe — can continue to resonate powerfully around the world.”
Harmony was the main theme of the Opening Ceremony, coming amid rising global tensions and strained partnerships.
Coventry, from Zimbabwe, was elected to the position last year and became the IOC’s first female leader in its 130-year history.
“I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa,” she said in a statement at the time of her election. “I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.”
Coventry’s role isn’t the only reason these Winter Games are historic. It’s also the first Games to have two cauldrons, the first Games to be co-hosted by two cities, and Team USA broke the record for the largest Winter Olympic team in history with 232 athletes.
The Associated Press and Melissa Hernandez de la Cruz contributed to this report.