Olympic flame lighting ceremony set for today in Ancient Olympia « Euro Weekly News

The Olympic flame for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games is set to be officially lit today at the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Olympia, after the original outdoor ceremony was delayed by heavy rain.

A historic rehearsal in Greece

The historic site, home to the 2,500-year-old Temple of Hera, hosted a spectacular rehearsal on Monday. The flame was successfully lit using sunlight and a concave mirror, following the ancient tradition of honouring the sun god Apollo. Greek actress Mary Mina played the role of high priestess, dressed in classical robes, while a troupe of dancers performed routines celebrating Greece’s Olympic heritage.

Weather forces ceremony indoors

While the rehearsal went off without a hitch under clear skies, forecasts warned of rain and clouds for the official ceremony, forcing organisers to move it indoors. But the change of venue won’t take away from the moment. The flame, already lit during Monday’s rehearsal, is ready to become the official Olympic flame.

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First torch-bearer set to begin relay

Bronze medallist rower Petros Gaidatzis will be the first torch-bearer in Greece. During the rehearsal, he received the flame and an olive branch from Mary Mina, symbolising peace and continuity with the ancient games. From Olympia, the flame will begin a long journey of around 12,000 kilometres through Greece and Italy. More than 10,000 torch-bearers will take part, carrying the flame to towns and cities before it reaches Milan for the Winter Games opening on 6 February 2026.

Torch relay across Greece and Italy

The torch’s journey will be a celebration of sport and culture. In Greece, it will pass through historic towns and regions, connecting communities to the Olympic story. Once it leaves Greece, the relay continues through Italy, visiting major cities and landmarks. Each torch-bearer carries the flame for a short distance, creating thousands of moments of celebration and inspiration. The relay combines modern planning with ancient tradition, showing how the flame unites people across borders.

Ritual retains its symbolism

Even indoors, the ceremony keeps its magic. Sunlight focused through a concave mirror lights the flame, while the priestess invokes ancient tradition. The olive branch and torch relay link the moment to thousands of years of history. It’s a reminder that the Olympics are about more than sport, they celebrate heritage, culture, and human spirit.

Drama and excitement for spectators

The indoor setting adds a unique twist to the ceremony, without taking away from the spectacle. The high priestess, dancers, first torch-bearer, and the carefully lit flame all combine to create a dramatic and memorable scene.

A journey of tradition and modernity

For winter sports fans and lovers of tradition, the Olympic flame is more than just a ceremony. It begins with sunlight, weathers a little rain, and travels across countries, towns, and landscapes. The torch relay spreads the Olympic values of peace, excellence, and friendship all along the route.

Ceremony details

Today’s ceremony starts at 11:30, with dignitaries including Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas and IOC President Kirsty Coventry in attendance. Despite the rain and indoor setting, the Olympic spirit shines bright in Olympia.

Follow the Olympic Torch journey here