Naples, Italy – Despite a day of persistent rain, the city of Naples vibrated with Olympic spirit as the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics torch relay concluded its Neapolitan journey. The highlight of the event was the lighting of the Olympic brazier in the iconic Piazza del Plebiscito by none other than football legend Fabio Cannavaro, captain of Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning team and a Ballon d’Or recipient.
A Journey of Sport and Social Redemption
The torch’s path through Naples was symbolic, beginning in Scampia, a neighborhood known for its efforts in social redemption, and culminating in the historically significant Piazza del Plebiscito. Cannavaro expressed profound emotion upon his arrival in the piazza. “I am very emotional,” he stated after igniting the brazier, “carrying the torch, experiencing the emotion of these Olympic colors and the burning flame, is priceless.”
Cannavaro further emphasized the profound significance of the Olympic Games, describing them as “unique experiences” that require thorough preparation but also encourage enjoyment. “These are things that happen once in a lifetime, and you must appreciate everything around you,” he added.
Prominent Figures and a Message of Peace
The relay saw a diverse group of torchbearers, including many athletes and notable figures from the city’s economy, such as Giuseppe Nargi, regional director of Intesa Sanpaolo. They were joined by comedians from The Jackal and celebrated Neapolitan sports champions like swimmer Massimiliano Rosolino and footballer Ciro Ferrara.
On stage with Cannavaro were Campania Governor Roberto Fico and Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi. Mayor Manfredi highlighted the dual nature of Naples as a “great city of sport, but also of peace,” extending this message to areas of conflict and suffering populations worldwide. Governor Fico, making his debut as governor at the Plebiscito, echoed this sentiment, calling it an honor to host the torch relay and emphasizing the message of peace emanating from Naples.
Inclusivity and Future Prospects
Earlier in its journey, the Olympic torch also passed through significant locations such as the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, reportedly with actor Jackie Chan, and San Giorgio a Cremano, where Andrea, an Argonauta from Foqus, carried the torch, delivering a powerful message of inclusion. These moments underscored the relay’s broader themes of unity, sport, and social impact.
The successful conclusion of the Naples leg of the torch relay sets an optimistic tone for the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, reinforcing the power of sport to bring communities together and inspire hope.
Source: Corriere del Mezzogiorno
