Criticism

Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics Opening: A Quiet Show of 'Harmony' Amid Sparse Energy

By Catriona Vale, Craft & Criticism EditorFebruary 6, 20261 note

The 2026 Winter Olympics opening in Milan and Cortina aimed for harmony but delivered a more subdued spectacle, with an emphasis on tradition over eccentricity.

The opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina was marked by a palpable desire for harmony, yet the event felt more restrained than previous years' spectacles. Held across multiple locations, the ceremony’s theme was woven into a narrative of unity, but critics noted a lack of the usual visual or emotional punch. The main festivities centered at Milan’s San Siro stadium, with smaller events in Cortina d’Ampezzo and other alpine towns, emphasizing the event’s decentralized approach.

Despite the grand theme, the energy within the arena was surprisingly muted. Attendees reported an almost empty feeling, with only select winter sports like figure skating, speed skating, and hockey filling the seats. A friend on-site described the atmosphere as “weak,” highlighting the disconnect between the ceremony’s traditional parade—where athletes from each host city walk in unity—and the overall vibe. The editing was sharp, cutting seamlessly between Milan and Cortina, showcasing a visual harmony that contrasted with the event’s emotional tone. More context: Criticism.

The Olympic torch lit two cauldrons—one at Arco della Pace in Milan and another at Cortina d’Ampezzo’s main square—symbolizing the joint effort. Yet, even with these iconic moments, the crowd's enthusiasm seemed subdued. The ceremony’s focus on tradition over spectacle resulted in a more predictable presentation, lacking the daring or eccentricity that marked recent Olympics, such as Paris 2024’s divisive show. More context: Criticism.

In a departure from recent trends, the event prioritized a sense of calm and continuity. Smaller venues like Livigno, Bormio, Tesero, and Predazzo hosted festivities that reinforced regional culture and unity. The parade of athletes, often the highlight of any Games, was delivered with precision, but the sparse audience and muted energy made it feel more like a formal procession than a celebration. The effort to depict harmony felt more like a necessity than a natural outcome. More context: Indie film.

The overall tone was of a more traditional and less daring Olympics, avoiding the flamboyance or controversy that has characterized recent editions. Critics and spectators alike noted the event’s restraint, perhaps a reflection of the Cold War-era nostalgia or a deliberate choice to focus on stability and regional pride. With the ceremony’s emphasis on harmony, it remains to be seen whether it will resonate with viewers or leave the event feeling more like a missed opportunity for spectacle.

The ceremony’s quiet elegance stands in stark contrast to the chaotic, sometimes divisive, energy of past Olympics. While the theme of harmony was clear, the execution lacked the punch that usually defines such global gatherings. As the games unfold, many will be watching to see if this subdued approach can sustain the spirit of competition and unity amid the quiet backdrop of a more traditional Olympic opening.

CriticismIndie film