Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Set for Spectacular Closing Ceremony
Following a dazzling start earlier this month, the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is poised for an emotional and historic closing ceremony. The Games, which commenced with a vibrant celebration across iconic Italian venues such as San Siro Stadium, will officially conclude on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Organizers have pledged a regal farewell that matches the scale and spirit of the spectacular opening night held on February 6.
Historic Venue and Star-Studded Performances
The closing ceremony will unfold at the Verona Arena, a UNESCO World Heritage site constructed in the first century AD. This historic Roman amphitheatre, renowned for its summer opera festival, will transform into a global stage for music, tradition, and the symbolic handover to the next host of the Winter Olympics. The event begins at 20:00 local time (CET) on Sunday, promising a blend of modern entertainment and Italian cultural elements.
Italian singer-songwriter Achille Lauro, actor Benedetta Porcaroli, and DJ-producer Gabry Ponte are scheduled to perform, ensuring a memorable finale. The ceremony aims to celebrate athletes and mark a powerful end to Italy's hosting of the Winter Olympics, with many traditional Olympic rituals planned to honor the competitors' achievements.
Unique Traditions and Global Broadcast Details
A highlight of the evening will be the traditional parade of all participating athletes, bringing competitors together one final time. In a historic moment, the Olympic flame will be extinguished with two cauldrons going out simultaneously in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo—a first in Winter Olympics history. Following this, the Olympic flag will be lowered and officially handed over to the French Alps, which will host the 2030 Winter Olympics.
Fans worldwide can watch the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics closing ceremony live from their homes. In the United States, coverage will be available on NBC Olympics and Peacock, while in Italy, it will air on RAI and Warner Bros. Discovery platforms. Broadcasters across Europe, Asia, and the Americas will also carry the event, ensuring global access to this symbolic farewell.
The closing night promises a fusion of music, symbolism, and a heartfelt goodbye to two unforgettable weeks of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, capping off an event that has captivated audiences with its athletic excellence and cultural richness.
