The Winter Olympics closing ceremony is poised to make history, as it will not be held at the San Siro stadium in Milan, the venue for the opening ceremony. Instead, the event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Verona Arena, marking a significant departure from tradition.
The Venue: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
For the first time ever, an Olympic ceremony will be hosted inside a UNESCO World Heritage Roman amphitheatre. The Verona Arena, constructed in 30 AD and older than the Colosseum, has been officially renamed the Verona Olympic Arena for the Games to emphasize its pivotal role in the closing ceremony. This ancient structure is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres globally, offering a unique backdrop that blends Italy's rich history with contemporary sporting events.
Reason for Selection
The choice of the Verona Arena over alternatives like Milan's San Siro stadium or a mountain resort allows Italy to showcase its cultural heritage alongside modern athletics. This venue provides an unparalleled setting that highlights the fusion of ancient architecture and Olympic spirit, creating a memorable experience for spectators worldwide.
Artistic Theme and Performances
The ceremony, titled "Beauty in Action," serves as a tribute to Italian creativity and human movement. The stage design draws inspiration from a drop of water, symbolizing the natural cycle that connects mountain ice to the sea, reflecting the environmental themes of the Winter Games.
Key performances will feature world-renowned ballet dancer Roberto Bolle, who embodies the intersection of athletic strength and artistic grace. Other confirmed artists include Italian pop icon Achille Lauro, electronic music pioneer Gabry Ponte, and the Orchestra and Chorus of the Fondazione Arena di Verona, ensuring a diverse and captivating show.
Handover Ceremony
A central element of the evening will be the Antwerp Ceremony, where the Olympic flag is lowered and formally handed over by the Mayor of Milan/Cortina to the Mayor of the next host region, the French Alps 2030. This ritual marks the transition to future Games and celebrates international cooperation in sports.
Broadcast and Streaming Information
In the UK, the closing ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC One and TNT Sports 2. BBC coverage is expected to commence at 7pm GMT, while TNT Sports will offer an extended "Closing Party" build-up starting at 6pm, providing comprehensive pre-event analysis and entertainment.
For live streaming, UK viewers can access the event for free on BBC iPlayer. Additionally, discovery+ offers another streaming option in the UK, and Peacock will host the live stream for audiences in the USA, ensuring global accessibility.
Radio Coverage
BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live national radio commentary and a wrap-up of the Games' final moments, including analysis of the medal table and interviews with returning Team GB athletes, offering an auditory experience for fans on the go.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games run from February 6 to 22, with over 850 hours of action available live on discovery+ via Prime Video. A £3.99 discovery+ Entertainment subscription grants access to TNT Sports 2, featuring 24/7 Olympic coverage throughout the event.
