Without much surprise, the Italians played the history and heritage card. The relay route was designed to “ pay tribute to the extraordinary historical and cultural heritage of Italy, while generating enthusiasm for the Olympic event”according to the official speech. The flame will pass through or stop at several of the 60 transalpine sites listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
Comment from the general director of Milan-Cortina 2026, Andrea Vanier: “The Olympic Torch Relay is the moment when the Games come into homes, spreading the magic of winter sports throughout Italy. It is the only project that literally brings the Olympic Games into the homes of millions of people. »
The torchbearers? You will have to wait until February 2025 to find out the application procedure and the terms of selection. But the director of Milan-Cortina 2026 ceremonies, Maria Laura Iascone, explained: “ We will choose participants based on their courage, experience of peace, inclusion and respect ».
The Paralympic torch will travel 12 days and 2,000 kilometers until the opening ceremony of the Games on March 6 in Verona, passing through Venice and Padua. It will be carried by 500 torchbearers.
Finally, an obligatory part of an Olympic and Paralympic relay: the partners. No change to casting: Coca-Cola; usual sponsor of the journey for more than 30 years, is back for a new edition. The brand will be the official partner for the Olympic version. The German insurance group Allianz, also a member of the IOC’s TOP global program, will play the same role for the Paralympic flame. On the Italian side, the flame will be sponsored by Eni, one of the premium partners of Milan-Cortina 2026.
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