Olympic Torch for 2026 Winter Games Unveiled in Milan

The torch for the upcoming **2026 Winter Olympics** and **Paralympic Games** has been officially unveiled, symbolizing the spirit of unity and competition. Designed by renowned architect **Carlo Ratti**, the torch serves as a modern link to the ancient traditions of the Olympic Games, set to take place in **Milano Cortina** from **February 6 to 22, 2026**.

Ratti, a professor at the **Massachusetts Institute of Technology** (MIT) and director of the Senseable City Lab, is celebrated for his innovative designs. His firm, **Carlo Ratti Associati**, has previously contributed to prominent global exhibitions, including the Italian Pavilion at the **Dubai Expo** in 2020. He notes, “You can push the boundaries more at these [venues] because you are building something that is temporary.” This philosophy guided him throughout the design process for the torch.

The design process spanned three years and involved collaboration with various stakeholders, including local and global Olympic committees and Olympic sponsor **Versalis**. Ratti emphasizes the importance of conveying emotions through design, stating, “It is about what the object or the design is to convey.”

Innovative Design Focused on Sustainability

The torch, aptly named **“Essential,”** is engineered to withstand varied weather conditions and altitudes as it travels from **Olympia, Greece** to **Milan**. Ratti aimed for a minimalist design that highlights the torch’s flame, which is lit using a parabolic mirror reflecting the sun’s rays in Greece.

The core feature of the torch is a high-performance burner powered by **bio-GPL** from **ENI**, ensuring that it is environmentally friendly. Unlike previous Olympic torches designed for single use, this model can be recharged **ten times**, significantly reducing the number of torches required. Ratti explains that each design iteration focused on placing the flame at the center while embodying “an ethos of frugality.”

The torch’s visible internal mechanism, accessible through a vertical opening, allows spectators to see the burner in action. Ratti chose recycled aluminum for the torch’s construction, making it the lightest Olympic torch to date at just under **2.5 pounds**. The body features a **PVD coating** that changes colors based on its surroundings, creating a dynamic visual experience. The Olympic torch is presented in a blue-green hue, while the Paralympic torch is gold.

The torch’s design has already received accolades, earning an honorable mention at **Italy’s Compasso d’Oro**, a prestigious industrial design award.

A Journey of Unity and Tradition

The Olympic torch relay will commence in late November, covering all **110 Italian provinces** before culminating in Milan for the opening ceremony. This journey draws considerable public interest, with volunteers playing a vital role in carrying the torch.

Ratti had the honor of carrying the torch during its journey through **Turin** in January. Reflecting on his connection to winter sports, he shared, “I grew up skiing where these games are being held, and have since skied around the world.”

In addition to sustainability, Ratti aims to represent the innovation of modern Italy through the torch. He highlights the importance of balancing Italy’s rich historical legacy with its current status as Europe’s second-largest industrial powerhouse. “When people think about Italy, they often think about the past… But the reality is that it is also leading in innovation and tech in many fields,” he remarked.

Ultimately, Ratti believes that architecture and design should reflect ethical principles and human experiences: “It’s not just about a physical thing. Ultimately, it’s about the human dimension.” The torch serves as a beacon of this philosophy, bridging the past and future as it embarks on its journey to the **2026 Winter Olympics**.