Milan Cortina 2026 Closing Ceremony to be Held at Verona Arena

The closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina will be held at the Verona Arena, marking a departure from traditional stadium-based ceremonies. The event, themed “Beauty in Action,” will celebrate beauty in movement through sport, art, and culture, according to Emilio Pozzi, CEO of On Location Italy, the official partner for hospitality experiences at the Games.

A Unique Venue and Artistic Vision

The Verona Arena, a historical amphitheater, was chosen by the International Olympic Committee for its unique setting. The ceremony, designed by Alfredo Accatino and Adriano Martella of Filmmaster, will incorporate opera, music, dance, cinema, design, and technology, showcasing Italy’s artistic heritage. The event will also extend to Piazza Bra and the Verona Philharmonic Theatre, featuring performances by the choir and orchestra of the Verona Arena Foundation.

International Presence and VIP Guests

Approximately 120 VIPs are expected to attend, including dignitaries and celebrities. A significant number of guests are anticipated from France, as Milan Cortina will pass the Olympic relay to the French Alps for the 2030 Winter Games. His Royal Highness the Grand Duke Emeritus of Luxembourg, Henri, has confirmed his attendance as reported by Corriere della Sera.

Hospitality Packages and Ticket Availability

On Location is managing international hospitality for the Games, offering packages that include tickets and unique experiences. Additional hospitality tickets are now available for events like hockey, with continued demand from both online purchasers and companies. The company also managed hospitality for Paris 2024 and is preparing for the Los Angeles 2028 Games, with tickets for the latter going on sale within a week.

Olympic Memorabilia on Display

Thanks to a collaboration with the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, memorabilia from past Olympic Games, including torches and medals, are on display in hospitality spaces in Milan Cortina and Livigno. These items are available for viewing by those who purchase On Location hospitality packages.

Successes and Future Outlook

On Location also provides hospitality services for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Bowl. Early indications suggest strong interest from South America and Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, alongside traditional European markets. The success of figure skating events has also boosted expectations for the Grand Skating Gala, traditionally held the night before the closing ceremony.

The article was originally published on February 16, 2026, by Corriere della Sera.