• The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics opened with a spectacular ceremony on February 6.
• 2,900 athletes participated in a historic parade at venues close to their events.
• US Vice President JD Vance's appearance was met with mixed reactions from the crowd.
• American skier Lindsey Vonn successfully completed a training run despite her injury.
• The ceremonies celebrated Italy's culture, featuring performances by Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli.

The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics officially commenced on February 6, 2026, with a dazzling opening ceremony at the San Siro stadium, resonating with celebrations across various venues in the snow-capped Italian Alps. This year's Games are notable for being the most geographically widespread in history, with athletes parading in locations closest to their competition sites, aiming to minimize travel burdens. The ceremony culminated in the lighting of two cauldrons—one at Milan's Arch of Peace and another in Cortina d'Ampezzo, which is hosting the women's alpine skiing events, according to lemonde, africanews, and thelocal.

The ceremonial performances honored Italy's rich cultural heritage and included a tribute to late fashion icon Giorgio Armani. Mariah Carey, gracefully clad in a sequined gown, delighted the audience with her performances of "Volare" and "Nothing is Impossible." Additionally, the crowd erupted in applause for Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who wowed attendees with his rendition of "Nessun Dorma." However, U.S. Vice President JD Vance's appearance on the big screen garnered loud boos from spectators, reflecting contrasting sentiments as the U.S. team was celebrated during their parade, according to lemonde, africanews, and thelocal.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, there was tension surrounding the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents as security for the American delegation, causing a stir among the Italian public and prompting protests. The Italian government maintained that the agents would not have an operational role during the Games. The ceremony featured elaborate costumes, with performers sporting oversized heads of iconic Italian opera composers, further emphasizing the event's cultural significance, according to lemonde and africanews.

Highlighting the competitive spirit of the Games, Lindsey Vonn made headlines by successfully completing her first training run for the women's downhill event, despite struggling with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. Vonn's remarkable presence at the Games is seen as a comeback story, as she aims to secure a medal after announcing her return from retirement. She posted on social media, "Nothing makes me happier! No one would have believed I would be here... but I made it!!" Competitive events, including the figure skating team competition, are off to a strong start during this first phase of the Olympic calendar, according to lemonde, africanews, and thelocal.