Overview
- IOC President Kirsty Coventry said the flame embodies a spirit that connects people without discrimination.
- Top political and sports leaders, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and ministers Andrea Abodi and Matteo Salvini, attended as the Frecce Tricolori flew over the square.
- The relay begins in Rome from the Stadio dei Marmi with swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri carrying the first torch, passing landmarks such as St. Peter’s Square, Castel Sant’Angelo, the Colosseum and the Campidoglio.
- Organizers plan a 63‑day route of about 12,000 kilometers through all 20 regions, engaging 10,001 torchbearers before the February 6, 2026 opening at Milan’s Stadio Meazza.
- Rome hosted a free evening concert at the Stadio dei Marmi featuring Mahmood, Noemi, The Kolors, Tananai and Carl Brave.