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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Derek Gatopoulos and Lefteris Pitarakis

Praying for the sun: What to know about the flame-lighting ceremony for the Winter Olympics

At a temple in Ancient Olympia, a flame is drawn from the sun to begin its journey to the Winter Games. The choreographed ceremony inspired by ancient Greece is designed to link the original games to today’s global competition.

On Wednesday, the flame will be kindled once more for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. From Olympia — birthplace of the ancient games — to Milan’s San Siro Stadium on Feb. 6, the torch will cross Italy’s cities, and cultural landmarks, carried by thousands of relay runners.

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