Mariah Carey, a renowned American pop star, is set to bring her star power to the opening ceremony of the upcoming Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. The local organizing committee revealed that Carey, 56, will be the first international artist to grace the Feb. 6 ceremony at Milan’s San Siro soccer stadium.
In a message on Instagram, Carey expressed her excitement, saying “Ci vediamo a Milano” (See you in Milan). The committee highlighted that Carey perfectly embodies the emotional essence leading up to the Games, with her music serving as a universal language that resonates with various narratives and emotions, aligning well with the ceremony’s theme of harmony.
The Winter Games will span across northern Italy, with opening events taking place in three mountain clusters – Cortina, Predazzo, and Livigno – alongside the bustling San Siro Stadium, expected to host 60,000 spectators. The Olympic flame will illuminate two locations – the Arco della Pace in central Milan and the main Piazza Dibona in Cortina.
Organizers aim to foster inclusivity by dispersing the Parade of Nations across multiple sites, enabling athletes from diverse disciplines worldwide to partake in the ceremony. Renowned ballet star Roberto Bolle is set to lead the closing ceremony at Verona’s ancient Roman Arena on Feb. 22.
Historically, opening ceremonies are known for featuring prominent celebrities and unexpected performances. The 2024 Summer Games in Paris saw Lady Gaga captivating audiences in pink feathers, Aya Nakamura taking the stage, and Céline Dion delivering a highly-anticipated closing act.
