Olympics : Olympic Torch Handed to France as Italy Celebrates Closing Festivities

The Milan Cortina Olympics wrap up with a vibrant closing ceremony in Verona Arena, celebrating Italian culture and music. Approximately 1,500 athletes enter, waving flags as iconic Italian pop hits echo through the ancient venue. The 2½-hour event features a whimsical tribute to Italian opera, with characters like Madama Butterfly and Aida brought to life. A key moment includes the Olympic flame, carried by gold medalists from the 1994 Lillehammer Games, illuminating the arena as the Olympic flag is passed to France, the next Winter Games host. French officials watch as their flag rises alongside Italy's and Greece's. The Milan Cortina Games, spanning 22,000 square kilometers, set a new precedent for future Olympics by utilizing existing venues. The 2030 Winter Games will be held in the French Alps and Nice, with speedskating events to be hosted abroad.