Mariah Carey, a prominent 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 recently announced that the 56-year-old singer will be the first international artist to perform at the event on February 6 at Milan’s San Siro soccer stadium.
Expressing her excitement, Carey took to Instagram and said, “Ci vediamo a Milano” (See you in Milan). The committee highlighted that Carey’s music embodies the emotional essence of the Games’ anticipation, serving as a universal language that resonates with diverse narratives and emotions, aligning with the ceremony’s theme of harmony.
The Winter Olympics will be hosted across various locations in northern Italy, including Cortina, Predazzo, Livigno, and the San Siro Stadium, expected to host 60,000 spectators. The Olympic flame will be lit at both the Arco della Pace in central Milan and in Cortina’s main Piazza Dibona, symbolizing unity and spirit.
The Parade of Nations will be uniquely showcased across multiple sites, enabling athletes from various disciplines worldwide to participate, reflecting the organizers’ inclusive approach. Acclaimed ballet star Roberto Bolle is set to headline the closing ceremony at Verona’s ancient Roman Arena on February 22.
Historically, opening ceremonies have featured renowned artists and surprises. Notably, at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, Lady Gaga wowed the audience in pink feathers, Aya Nakamura graced the stage, and Céline Dion delivered a highly anticipated performance to conclude the ceremony.
