Milan-Cortina announces inaugural Winter Games ceremony with new stage and attractions By Carolina Costa
5 min read
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Preparations for the 25th edition of Jogos by Inverno in Milão-Cortina reach their peak, with the opening ceremony scheduled for next Friday, February 6th. The event, which promises a grand spectacle, will be broadcast live from 4pm (Brasília time) to millions of viewers, marking the official start of one of the biggest global sporting competitions.
For the first time in Olympic history, the inaugural ceremony will take place in two different Italian cities, reflecting the joint nature of the venue. The Estádio San Siro, in Milão, will be the main stage for the artistic presentations and the parade of part of the delegations, promising an immersive and memorable experience for those present and the global audience.
Featured opening show
The opening ceremony of Jogos of Inverno 2026 in Milão-Cortina will be attended by renowned international artists. Nomes as well as Mariah Carey, Laura Pausini and Andrea Bocelli are confirmed to brighten the event, raising the cultural and artistic level of the night. Bocelli, in particular, will make an exciting return to this type of stage, 20 years after their landmark participation in Olimpíadas by Turim in 2006.
The organizers have kept much of the details of the show secret, increasing expectations around the innovations and surprises that will be revealed. Esta approach aims to ensure audiences experience the maximum impact of the production, which combines cutting-edge technology with artistic talent to create a unique and immersive experience.
The grandeur of the event is evidenced by the vast number of professionals and volunteers involved. The production mobilizes around 1,200 volunteers and a diverse cast, from 27 different countries, with ages ranging between 10 and 70 years old. Além Furthermore, the production of 1,400 costumes and a thousand props demonstrates the meticulousness and effort dedicated to creating each visual detail.
Originality and celebration in two cities
The unprecedented format of the opening ceremony, divided between Milão and Cortina d’Ampezzo, is a historic milestone for the Jogos Olímpicos. Essa duality not only celebrates the particularities of each location, but also allows for a more comprehensive and inclusive experience, highlighting the rich cultural and scenic tapestry of the host region. The athletes’ parade, one of the most anticipated moments, will be carefully orchestrated to respect this geographic division.
The choice of Milão and Cortina as host cities reflects a commitment to sustainability and the valorization of existing infrastructure. The strategy of using multiple locations for the inaugural event underlines the collaboration between regions, projecting an image of unity and efficiency in organizing an event on a global scale, while also seeking to minimize environmental impact and maximize the legacy for local communities.
Production grandeur and global talent
The sound of the ceremony is another highlight, with approximately 500 musicians mobilized exclusively to record the soundtrack. The combination of international caliber musical talent with such a robust technical team ensures that the sonic atmosphere is as impactful as the visual one. Cada performance and musical transition are designed to evoke emotion and celebrate Olympic ideals.
Behind the scenes of the production reveals an impressive logistical and creative complexity, with months of rehearsals and coordination. The use of advanced technology, including projections and spectacular lighting, will transform Estádio San Siro and other spots into dynamic scenes. Essa dedication aims not only to entertain, but also to inspire, transmitting the message of overcoming and unity that characterizes Jogos.
The delegation’s journey and the search for medals
The Brazilian delegation is preparing for its largest participation in the history of the Jogos of Inverno, an achievement that reflects the country’s growing investment and interest in ice and snow sports. With a record number of athletes, the expectation is that Brasil can, for the first time, aim for a medal, a milestone that would raise the profile of national winter sport.
Among the personalities invited to carry the flag with the Olympic hoops is Rebeca Andrade, the greatest medalist in the history of Brazilian sport in Olimpíadas. Sua’s presence at this symbolic moment highlights the recognition of the Comitê Olímpico Internacional (IOC) and the organization of Milão-Cortina for the talent and representation of the country’s athletes, serving as an inspiration for the entire team.
The journey of Brazilian athletes, many of whom train in challenging conditions and in snow-free locations, is a testament to dedication. Adaptation and resilience are essential qualities to compete on a global stage, and the delegation arrives with a spirit of overcoming to represent the country in a variety of disciplines, from cross-country skiing to bobsled.
The Olympic flames and symbols of unity
At the end of the ceremony, one of the most anticipated and symbolic moments will be the lighting of the two Olympic cauldrons. Em Milão, a majestic pyre, weighing 4.5 tons of metal, will be lit at Arco della Pace, one of the city’s historic landmarks. Simultaneamente, in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the flame will shine in Piazza Dibona, the heart of the Alpine city, representing the unity and Olympic spirit that extends throughout the region. Este double lighting, full of meaning, symbolizes the partnership between the cities and the vast extension of the games.
Modalities and the beginning of disputes
Although the opening ceremony officially starts the games, the competitions will have already started on Wednesday, February 4th, with the curling contests. Esse an early start allows for a more balanced schedule and due attention to each modality, which will last until February 22nd.
During this intense period, around 3,500 athletes, representing 93 countries, will compete for a total of 735 medals distributed across 16 different disciplines. The diversity of sports guarantees excitement and memorable moments for fans:
Wide coverage and professionals involved
Coverage of Jogos from Inverno 2026 will be extensive and multiplatform, ensuring that no moment escapes the public eye. Mais of 190 communications professionals were mobilized, with a team of 14 journalists on site in the host country, divided into four reporting teams strategically positioned to capture all angles of the event.
Three of these teams will be focused on producing content for open and pay television channels, under the leadership of reporters Guilherme Roseguini, Raphaela Potter and Raphael from Angeli. A dedicated team, led by Sofia Miranda, will dedicate its efforts to online content, delivering real-time updates and in-depth analysis through the digital platform.
The challenges and expectations of athletes
Winter athletes face unique challenges, from adapting to different snow and ice conditions to the pressure of representing their countries on a global stage. Cada training and competition are a test of limits, and the dedication to reach the podium is immense, driving performances that capture the attention and admiration of the world.
