The Opening Ceremony of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics officially launched the world’s premier celebration of winter sports in a dazzling spectacle held at Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium.

The evening opened on a high note with Mariah Carey delivering a magical performance of the Italian classic “Volare (Nel blu, dipinto di blu)”, thrilling the crowd with her signature high notes and setting an electrifying tone for the ceremony.

Academy Award–winning actress Charlize Theron delivered one of the night’s most moving moments, offering a heartfelt speech on peace dedicated to Nelson Mandela. Among the distinguished guests in attendance were U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, alongside numerous royal figures.

Carey was not the only major musical highlight of the evening. Renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli also took the stage, while Laura Pausini performed the Italian national anthem, joined by other celebrated artists throughout the ceremony.

Italian model Vittoria Ceretti, partner of actor Leonardo DiCaprio, led a group of women dressed in glossy red, white, and green ensembles as she presented the Italian flag to President Sergio Mattarella.

The striking outfits, along with the uniforms worn by athletes and officials, were creations of fashion house Giorgio Armani, who was also honored during the ceremony with a special tribute.

The event continued with the traditional parade of nations, featuring delegations from more than 90 countries, showcasing the diversity and global spirit of the Games. In keeping with Olympic tradition, Greece entered the stadium first, honoring its historic role as the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

With spectacle, star power, and powerful symbolism, the Milan–Cortina Games opened with a celebration worthy of the Olympic stage.