Sabrina Impacciatore Delivers Show-Stopping Performance at Winter Olympics Opening
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony on February 6 at Milan's iconic San Siro Stadium, headlined by a mesmerizing performance from Italian actress Sabrina Impacciatore. The Emmy-nominated star, renowned for her role as Valentina in The White Lotus, captivated the global audience with a six-minute dance routine that traced a century of Winter Olympics history.
A Tribute to Italian Heritage and Olympic Spirit
Born in Rome and a fixture in Italy's entertainment industry, Impacciatore honored her nation's rich cultural legacy and the host cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. She took the stage in a dazzling silver-and-gold lamé outfit, following the Parade of Nations, and began with a pre-recorded sketch introducing the official mascots, Tina and Milo. Her performance unfolded as an emotional, time-traveling journey through Olympic decades, masterfully blending passion, drama, and athletic achievement.
The Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 praised her contribution, stating it was "a significant contribution to the success of the Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games" and that she would "provide viewers with a moment of profound emotional resonance, embodying the spirit of the Games." Social media erupted with excitement, with some initially speculating that her introductory video might have been AI-generated before her live appearance confirmed her artistry.
Star-Studded Ceremony and Historic Moments
Impacciatore joined an elite lineup of performers, including international superstar Mariah Carey, Italian singer-songwriter Laura Pausini, legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli, rapper Ghali, pianist Lang Lang, and opera star Cecilia Bartoli. The ceremony made history by featuring dual Olympic cauldrons lit simultaneously for the first time—one at Milan's Arco della Pace and another in Cortina d'Ampezzo's Piazza Italia.
Italian skiing icons Sofia Goggia, Alberto Tomba, and Deborah Compagnoni had the honor of igniting the flames to conclude the event. International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry welcomed the athletes, emphasizing, "This is your moment. I understand the blend of excitement and nerves you are experiencing. Your entire life of dedication, early mornings, long hours, sacrifices, and setbacks has led to this point."
Milano Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee President Giovanni Malagò added, "Dear athletes, you come from diverse traditions, cultures, and nations. Yet, you are united by the universal language of sport."
Impacciatore's Role as an Ambassador of Italian Talent
Announced in December 2025, Sabrina Impacciatore's involvement was a highlight of the ceremony, showcasing Italian creativity on a global stage. The Milano Cortina 2026 organizing committee tweeted, "Sabrina Impacciatore takes the stage at Milano Cortina 2026. An ambassador of Italian talent around the world, Sabrina Impacciatore, will be one of the protagonists of the Opening Ceremony... A talent that will give voice to the contemporary Italian spirit, in a show that brings together sport, culture, and creativity."
The event drew athletes from over 90 nations, with strong calls for peace and unity resonating throughout. Competitions are set to span venues in Predazzo, Livigno, and Cortina d'Ampezzo, marking a unique dual-host format for the Games. For viewers in the United States, NBC will rebroadcast the ceremony at 8 p.m. ET, ensuring wider accessibility.
This opening ceremony not only celebrated athletic excellence but also highlighted the fusion of art and sport, with Sabrina Impacciatore's performance standing out as a memorable tribute to Olympic history and Italian cultural pride.
