LET THE GAMES BEGIN

Team Canada athletes make us proud as they go for gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics

- AMY BIELBY

The Winter Olympics officially kicked off in a glittering opening ceremony, with nearly 3,000 athletes from around the world including 207 Canadian competitors - descending on northern Italy, along with a starry array of A-list guests.

Grammy winner Mariah Carey was the first big name to take the stage at the historic San Siro Stadium in Milan, performing her song “Nothing Is Impossible,” along with the 1950s classic “Volare.”

"Such a dream come true to perform (in Italian!) at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games," the singer, 56, gushed on Instagram. "Thank you to everyone who made this happen."

Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli then wowed the audience with his operatic vocals, while Charlize Theron followed to offer a message of unity.

As the designated Messenger of Peace for the United Nations, the South African actress – wearing a black floor-length Versace gown featuring daring cutouts – encouraged athletes and spectators to recognize the importance of the Olympics. At the end of the ceremony – which drew famous attendees such as Usher, Stanley Tucci and Marisa Tomei – the Italian flag was presented by the host country’s own Vittoria Ceretti, model and girlfriend of leading man Leonardo DiCaprio.

CANADIAN PRIDE