Inter Milan head coach Cristi Chivu joined a prestigious relay of sporting legends to carry the Olympic torch through historic Milan ahead of tonight’s Winter Games opening ceremony.
Former Romania captain and current Inter Milan manager Cristi Chivu carried the Olympic flame through Milan’s historic Piazza Sant’Ambrogio on Thursday.
Surrounded by family and cheering supporters, the 45-year-old coach represented the Nerazzurri in the final buildup to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Chivu described the experience as “an indescribable emotion,” as fans lined the streets chanting “Forza Inter” and “Hai România” during his segment of the relay.
Chivu was joined by an elite group of athletes, including tennis champions Flavia Pennetta and Francesca Schiavone, and American snowboarding legend Shaun White.
The relay serves as a symbolic bridge between Italy’s rich football culture and the winter multisport event.
Earlier this week, Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti also carried the torch, highlighting the deep connection between the city’s iconic football clubs and the upcoming Olympic festivities.
The flame’s journey concludes tonight, February 6, with AC Milan icon Zlatan Ibrahimović set to carry the torch during the final stages before the opening ceremony at 9:00 PM.
The Games will run until February 22, featuring over 3,500 athletes competing across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Romania has sent a delegation of 29 athletes to the event, competing in disciplines ranging from bobsleigh to alpine skiing.