Italy Launches the 25th Winter Olympics with a Four-City Opening, Featuring Ukraine's Delegation

The 25th Winter Olympic Games Open in Italy

According to НОК: The 25th Winter Olympic Games officially commenced in Italy on February 6, marking a historic first as the opening events were held simultaneously across four host cities: Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Livigno, and Predazzo. The opening ceremony at Milan's San Siro stadium was attended by dignitaries including Italian President Sergio Mattarella, International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry, and Organizing Committee President Giovanni Malagò. The event also featured performances by renowned artists such as Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, and Laura Pausini.

Ukraine's Presence at the Ceremony

The Ukrainian delegation participated in the celebratory parade across all four cities. In Milan, the national flag was carried by short track speed skater Yelyzaveta Sydorenko, accompanied by Vadym Huttsait, President of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine. In Cortina d'Ampezzo, the flag bearer was skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, with mission chief Liudmyla Panchenko marching alongside the athletes.

• In Livigno, the Ukrainian team was represented by participants in snowboarding and freestyle skiing disciplines.
• In Predazzo, the delegation featured athletes from ski jumping and Nordic combined events.

The ceremony culminated with the lighting of the Olympic cauldrons in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo's main square by distinguished Italian Olympians.

In this way, the Ukrainian delegation made a dignified appearance at the opening ceremony of the 25th Winter Olympic Games, affirming its place on the international sporting stage.

The Winter Olympics in Italy represent a significant event not only for the host nation but for the global sporting community as a whole. Ukraine's participation in these major competitions underscores its commitment to international cooperation and athletic excellence, particularly amid ongoing challenges. This appearance serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and national pride for Ukrainians, highlighting the unifying power of sport during difficult times.