President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella visited the Milan Olympic Village this morning, on the eve of the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Games. Accompanied by his daughter, Signora Laura, the Head of State was welcomed by CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio, Secretary General and Chef de Mission Carlo Mornati, President of the Milano Cortina 2026 Foundation Giovanni Malagò, Mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala and President of the Lombardy Region Attilio Fontana.

“On behalf of all the athletes, I extend my warmest welcome,” said CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio, addressing the Head of State after the national anthem. “We are ready – even more so after your arrival – because we know how much you care about us, how closely you follow us and how much enthusiasm you convey. We feel reassured knowing that someone is standing behind us, protecting us every day and following us with attention. This is not only a sign of responsibility for us, but also an incentive to do better and make Italians proud of what we do.”

After signing the Olympic Truce Wall, Sergio Mattarella (photo Quirinale) addressed the Italian delegation in the Chef de Mission Meeting Room:

“It is a great pleasure to meet you. You are about to begin. On the eve of the Opening Ceremony, it is important to remember that simply being selected and being part of the Olympic team is already a major achievement. Participation is the first great result. Then comes competition with athletes from all over the world, which will be exciting and stimulating. I believe the first competition for each of you will be with yourselves and your own limits.”

He concluded by wishing the delegation success and expressing his confidence that they would honour the Tricolour.

The President later received and wore a white Italia Team jacket, presented by short track star Arianna Fontana and speed skaters Davide Ghiotto and Francesca Lollobrigida. He then visited the Italian Mission headquarters before sharing lunch with the athletes at the Olympic Village dining hall.