Milano Cortina 2026 Opens Applications for Olympic and Paralympic Torchbearers
Milano Cortina 2026 has officially launched the application process for Olympic and Paralympic torchbearers. Anyone born before 5 December 2011 is eligible to apply and take part in the 11-day Paralympic Torch Relay, which begins on 24 February 2026.
Italian figure skater Carolina Kostner announced the start of the application process at the Sanremo Music Festival, marking just over a year until the opening of the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.
The organizers are searching for torchbearers with inspiring stories of passion, talent, energy, and respect—qualities that will illuminate the path to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Andrea Varnier, CEO of Milano Cortina 2026, emphasized the significance of the torchbearers, stating:
"With their unique experiences and stories, torchbearers embody the diverse spirit of our society and the richness of our country. Their role extends beyond carrying the torch—they are ambassadors of the Olympic and Paralympic values, demonstrating how sport can inspire the world. Thanks to them, this journey will be a powerful moment of inclusivity, openness, and unity."
How to Become a Torchbearer
Eligible individuals can apply through the official Milano Cortina 2026 website. Applicants will have the chance to share their personal stories and explain their motivation for joining this historic event.
Torchbearers are expected to uphold the values of sport and the Olympic and Paralympic Movements, carrying a message of equality and unity.
Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Torch Relay
The Paralympic Flame will cover 2,000 kilometres over 11 days, from 24 February to 6 March 2026. A total of 501 torchbearers will carry the flame before it ignites the cauldron at the Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony in the Arena di Verona.
The journey begins in Stoke Mandeville, United Kingdom—the birthplace of the Paralympic Movement. Between 24 February and 2 March, the Flame will be celebrated at five Flame Festivals in Turin, Milan, Bolzano, Trento, and Trieste. On 3 March, a special unification ceremony will take place in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
From there, the Torch will continue through Venice and Padova before making its grand entrance at the Arena di Verona on 6 March.
Worldwide Paralympic Partner Allianz is the presenting partner of the Journey of the Paralympic Flame.