Rainy skies couldn’t dampen the festive spirit as the Milano Cortina 2026 torch relay arrived in Naples on December 23, marking its final stage before a Christmas break 🎄🔥. Local crowds cheered as the Olympic flame lit up the historic city.
Earlier that day, runners carried the torch through the ancient ruins of Pompeii in a spectacular journey across Campania. The eighteenth stage kicked off in Torre Annunziata and passed through Torre del Greco, Ercolano, Portici and San Giorgio a Cremano, bringing Olympic excitement to each town.
The grand finale unfolded in Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ iconic square, where football legend Fabio Cannavaro—who began his career at Serie A club Napoli and captained Italy to World Cup glory in 2006—led the relay in his hometown. Now head coach of the Uzbekistan national team, Cannavaro had previously held coaching positions in the Chinese mainland 🏆.
After the holiday pause, the relay will resume on Friday, December 26, in Latina, before winding its way to Milan’s San Siro Stadium for the opening ceremony on February 6, 2026. Over the next weeks, the flame will travel an epic 12,000 kilometers, lighting up all 110 Italian provinces.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a history buff or simply soaking up Italy’s festive cheer, the torch relay offers a unique glimpse of Olympic magic up close. Stay tuned for the next leg of this epic journey! ✨
Reference(s):
Milano Cortina 2026 torch relay reaches Naples before Christmas
cgtn.com
