The Olympic flame for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games was officially transferred to the Italian organizers in the historic all-marble stadium in central Athens, where the inaugural modern Olympics took place nearly 130 years ago. The flame will embark on its journey to Italy, commencing a 12,000-kilometer relay across all 110 Italian provinces over 63 days before arriving at Milan’s San Siro Stadium for the grand opening ceremony on February 6.
Italy is set to host the flame after a span of two decades, with a total of 10,000 torchbearers ready for the event. Giovanni Malago, the president of the Milan Cortina organizing committee, expressed his gratitude for the privilege of receiving the flame in such a revered location, emphasizing the significance of the torch’s symbolism.
Despite the forecast for heavy rainstorms in Athens, the ceremony proceeded with a reduced program due to the weather conditions. Fortunately, the rain held off until the conclusion of the event, allowing the attendees to witness performances by Greek and Italian artists and a children’s choir at the historical venue that once hosted the first modern Games in 1896.
Following its overnight display at the Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis, the iconic flame was carried into the Panathenaic stadium by Greek water polo player Elena Xenaki. The torch was lit in a ceremonial manner, utilizing a concave mirror to reflect the sun’s rays, symbolizing the connection between the ancient and modern Olympic ideals.
The concept of the Olympic flame and torch relay originated from a collaboration between Greece and Germany, predating the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany. The tradition continues to be upheld, signifying unity and sporting excellence. The flame was handed over from Greece’s Olympic Committee president Isidoros Kouvelos to Giovanni Malago, marking a symbolic transfer of responsibility and unity in the spirit of the Games.
The upcoming Winter Games in Italy will showcase 116 medal events, including the introduction of ski mountaineering and the return of NHL players to Olympic ice hockey, along with increased female participation. Additionally, a separate flame will be ignited on February 24 at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in England for the Winter Paralympics, honoring the birthplace of the Paralympic movement.
In summary, the Milan Cortina Winter Games are poised to celebrate international sportsmanship and excellence, continuing the legacy of the Olympic movement while promoting unity and respect among nations.