As the sun shines over Milan and spring arrives, the conclusion of the 2026 Winter Games brings mixed feelings of pride and melancholy. The XXV Winter Games in Milan-Cortina were significant for winter tourism in Italy, and despite initial doubts, the athletic performances and event logistics impressed. The Olympics are not just sporting events; they are international phenomena that boost a nation’s reputation and self-esteem. The Opening Ceremony showcased Italy’s heritage, but the Closing Ceremony at the Verona Arena surpassed expectations. This UNESCO World Heritage site hosted a stunning display of water, light, and music, featuring Benedetta Porcaroli and Roberto Bolle. A highlight was the segment dedicated to Italian operas, where Rigoletto made a dramatic entrance.
The Olympic Flame, carried by members of the Lillehammer cross-country ski team, added to the spectacle as athletes entered, with gold medalists Davide Ghiotto and Lisa Vittozzi as flagbearers. A tribute to the 18,000 volunteers featured 90-year-old Mario Gargiulo, a veteran of the 1956 Olympics. Bolle’s performance, inspired by the water cycle, captivated the audience. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milano Cortina Foundation, praised Italy’s commitment to the Games, while IOC President Kirsty Coventry called them a "new standard for the future." The cauldron extinguished with Venetian pianist Gloria Campaner's music, culminating in a grand finale with Rigoletto, Major Lazer, and Achille Lauro.
At the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Games, Italian food shone as the true star. Athletes believe that the mouthwatering aroma of local cuisine boosts their performance. Livigno pizza is viewed as a miraculous energy source, while Pizzoccheri from Valtellina is celebrated as the food of the gods. Pasta shaped as Olympic rings symbolises the Games, and tiramisu is playfully called legalised "doping." When asked about their success, athletes jokingly say: double portions with no guilt. The Games highlight Italy’s commitment to quality cuisine, featuring a menu rich with pasta, pizza, lasagna, tiramisu, muffins, and cassatina in the athlete canteen. One standout dish is the "Olympic Rings," created by renowned chef Carlo Cracco, which has become a social media sensation. This dish, served for the first time in the Olympic Village, combines tomatoes, basil, and the popular "Gli anelli alla Crudaiola" with anchovies, olives, and extra virgin olive oil. Overall, Italian style is woven throughout the menus, dominated by pasta and pizza, but also showcasing regional specialties like bresaola from Valtellina and canederli from Alto Adige, ensuring athletes experience an authentic taste of Italy.
Amid tough times, we Italians transformed a crisis into a celebration. The Olympics were deemed a success, with positive reactions from attendees and media alike. The Games offered a chance to reshape the world’s view of Italy, highlighting both the impressive medals won, particularly by Federica Brignone, and Italy's image as a welcoming host.
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