In a Gladiator Coliseum, Milan Cortina Closes the Olympics Better Than Ever Before
Sports Illustrated • • general
Key Points:
- The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics closing ceremony was held at the ancient Arena di Verona, a historic Roman amphitheater renowned for its beauty and cultural significance, making it the most beautiful Olympic closing venue in history.
- The article draws parallels between the myth of Icarus and the athletes' daring feats, highlighting moments of triumph and struggle, including the sacrifices of Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych and the achievements of mothers Elana Meyers Taylor and Francesca Lollobrigida.
- Italian opera was central to the ceremony, featuring performances of La Traviata and Madame Butterfly, and a reinterpretation of “La Marseillaise” to welcome the 2030 French Alps Olympics, emphasizing Italy
