unveiling the ‘Essentials’ torch for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina

an Olympic symbol of sustainability, design, and technology

the official torch, Essential, has been unveiled to mark the start of the 2026 Olympic Winter Games and Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina. the flame was unveiledon April 14 at boththe MilanTriennale and theExpo Italia pavilion at Osaka 2025, capturingthe attention of sports fans around the world.

italian sports stars wereon handfor the unveiling , adding to the symbolism. stefania Belmondo (cross-country), Bebe Vio (Paralympic fencing), Martina Cairoli (athletics) and Carolina Costner (figure skating) made an emotional introduction to the flame.

torch design byworld-renowned architect Carlo Latti

the torch was designed by CRACarlo Ratti Associati, led by MIT professor and world-renowned architect Carlo Ratti . he is known forhis “sensible city” philosophy, which emphasizes the connection between technology, humans, and nature,and this is reflected in the torch.

‘Essential’ features a minimalistdesign ,stripped of unnecessary ornamentation and centered on the flame itself. its open top visuallyemphasizesthe flame’s burning, while its sleek curves and understated form draw the eye.

recycled materials and eco-friendly fuel for sustainability

the torch is made from an environmentally conscious recycled aluminum and brass alloy, while the handle is made of bio-naphtha-based polymer from Versalis. the fuel is bio-LPG produced at Eni’s Gela refinery in Sicily. the fuel is made from 100% renewable raw materials, including waste cooking oil, animal fats, and agricultural by-products, and the torchis designed to bereusable and rechargeable up to 10 times.

technology created in collaboration with leadingItalian companies

the creation of the torch involved collaboration with some of Italy’s leading energy and materials companies, including Eni, Versalis, and Cavagna Group. Eni is a traditional energy company transitioning to a green energy focus,while Cavagna Group specializes in gas installations, using 100% recycled metals to create precise mechanical designs.

torch colors – a visual language that captures the spirit of each competition

winter Olympics Torch: The ‘Shades of Sky’ concept uses a turquoisecolor inspired by the Italian sky.symbolizinghope, change, and movement.

paralympic Torch: Bronze finish under the ‘Mountains of Light’ theme , representingcourage, inner strength and defiance.

both versions feature a PVD finish thatchanges color iridescentlywith the reflection of light , addingvisual vibrancy with movement.

a sparkfor the future, a legacy for the world

after the 2026 Winter Olympics, the torch will be permanently preserved at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland.a cultural legacy of sustainable design, Italian craftsmanship, and zeitgeist, it will be passed down for generations to come.

the torch is currently on display at the Expo 2025 Italy Pavilion in Osaka,and from May 2025 it willbeon display at the Milan Triennale Design Museum.a story of technology, the environment, and humanity, the torch will make the 2026 Olympic journey even more special.