Spain deploys its largest delegation ever at the opening of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games

 

The delegation of España has officially begun its journey in the XXV Winter Olympic Games de Milano-Cortina 2026In an unprecedented display of logistical complexity, the event kicked off the competition with a simultaneous ceremony in four different venues, consolidating a decentralized organizational model that directly impacts infrastructure management and business tourism in the Italian region.

 

A logistical milestone: Four venues and two cauldrons

 

For the first time in the history of the Winter Olympics, the opening ceremony was spread across several locations simultaneously, most notably the Estadio de San Siro en Milán as the epicenter of the celebration. The organization has opted for a dual lighting system: one located in the Arco de la Pace (Milánand another in the Piazza Dibona (Cortina).

 

The event featured a strong presence from the Italian cultural industry, with performances by international figures such as Mariah Carey, Laura Pausini and the tenor Andrea BocelliThis deployment underscores the capability of Italia to manage global-scale events, attracting thousands of attendees and generating a relevant economic flow in the international services and logistics sectors.

 

Spain: Record delegation on the international stage

 

The presence of España In these games it is especially significant, as it coincides with the largest delegation in its history at a winter Olympic Games. The national flag bearers led the representation at various strategic points across Italy, reinforcing the country's visibility abroad.

 

• Olivia Smart She served as flag bearer at the headquarters of Milán.
• Quim Salarich led the delegation in the area of Bormio.
• Three additional athletes participated in the technical parade in Predazzo.

 

The following details the key information about the ceremony and the structure of the competition:

 

Concept	Detail / Figure
Number of participating delegations	92 countries
Parade position of España	77ª position
Venues of the Olympic cauldron	Milán y Cortina
Closing date	February 22
Closing venue	Arena de Verona

 

Institutional framework and global protocol

 

The formal opening was carried out by the Presidente de la República Italiana, following the institutional interventions of Kirsty Coventry, President of Comité Olímpico Internacional (COI), and Giovanni Malagor, Chairman of the Comité OrganizadorThe final lighting of the flame was entrusted to sporting legends such as Alberto Tomba, Deborah Compagnoni y Sofia Goggia.

 

This Olympic cycle will conclude in the historic Arena de Veronawhere the fire will begin its transition towards future games in the Alpes Franceses 2030ensuring the continuity of investment and economic development linked to winter sports in Europe.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about Milano-Cortina 2026

 

What is the main new feature of this edition of the Winter Games?
This is the first time the opening ceremony has been held simultaneously in four different venues and features two cauldrons lit at the same time.

What is the importance of the Spanish delegation at this event?
España It attends with the largest delegation in its history, reflecting the growth of national winter sports and its projection in foreign sports trade.

When and where does the event end?
The competition will remain active until February 22, the date on which the closing ceremony will be held at the Arena de Verona.