2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony: Milan-Cortina Games open with performances by Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli

Prior to the show, creative director Marko Palic’s presentation was based on the principle of “armonia” – that is, union, connection and agreement – ​​with a “narrative aiming to unite regions, people and values ​​within a common vision”.

It included sections titled “Italian Beauty” and “Fantasia,” a tribute to fashion designer Giorgio Armani, who died at the age of 91 in 2025.

Meanwhile, American singer Mariah Carey – one of the world’s best-selling artists – wore a sparkling white outfit as she performed a version of Volare.

“We are ready to make Olympic history again, inspired by the values ​​that unite us all: excellence, friendship and respect,” said Giovanni Malago, President of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee.

“The coordination of so many different bodies in pursuit of one dream was a powerful expression of this country’s ability to deliver such a complex project.

“I’ve never been as proud to be Italian as I feel tonight.”

It was left to International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry to declare the Games open.

As the first woman to serve as president of the International Olympic Committee, this is the first time the Olympic Games have been officially opened by a woman.

“This is why we all love games. Because through you we see the best in ourselves,” she told the athletes.

“You remind us that we can be brave. That we can be kind. That we can get back up, no matter how hard we fall.

“The spirit of the Olympic Games is not just about sports. It is about us – and what makes us human.

“That’s the magic of the Olympics: inspiring us all to be the best we can be together.”

While events such as curling, figure skating and ice hockey have already begun, the top five gold medals at the Games will be won on Saturday.