Overview
- At Rome’s Stadio dei Marmi, 1960 torchbearer Giancarlo Peris delivered the lantern to Giovanni Malagò, who lit the brazier to formally start the relay.
- Swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri began the first segment of the route and called the moment “stupendo,” saying the flame represents a message of unity.
- High jumper Gianmarco Tamberi passed the torch to basketball player Achille Polonara, who said standing to carry it was already a success after recent weeks in a wheelchair.
- Malagò said the route will visit UNESCO sites across Italy and serve as a “great spot for the country.”
- During the ceremony, Malagò referenced Rome’s aborted 2024 Olympic bid, saying the city had been denied trust.