Hollywood icon George Clooney and his wife, the renowned French-British lawyer Amal Clooney, made a glamorous arrival in Milan on Friday, hand-in-hand, ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony. The couple, married for over a decade, appeared deeply affectionate as they exited the airport, capturing the attention of onlookers with their impeccable style and evident bond.
Star-Studded Arrival for Olympic Festivities
Amal Clooney, 47, turned heads in a chic navy mini dress paired with fashionable knee-high leopard print boots, effortlessly stealing the spotlight. Meanwhile, George Clooney, 64, looked dapper in a full navy ensemble, accessorised with casual Adidas trainers, showcasing a blend of sophistication and comfort. Their arrival sets the tone for an exciting weekend filled with Olympic celebrations and high-profile events.
Lavish Opening Ceremony Details Unveiled
The 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony is poised to be a spectacular affair, kicking off at 8pm local time (7pm GMT) at the iconic San Siro stadium. This historic venue, home to football giants AC Milan and Inter Milan, will host its last major event before planned redevelopment, adding a nostalgic layer to the proceedings. The ceremony promises stunning visuals, glitz, and star-studded performances, featuring more than 1,300 performers, including 1,200 volunteers from 27 countries.
Music will play a central role, with organisers aiming to highlight Italy's rich cultural heritage while infusing a modern twist. Headline acts include global superstar Mariah Carey, who has made the courageous decision to perform a well-known song in its original Italian, and legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. Bocelli expressed that singing at the opening ceremony is a great honour and a deeply emotional experience, underscoring the event's significance.
Political and Celebrity Attendees Gather
The stands at San Siro will be filled with dignitaries, including dozens of heads of state and government. Notable attendees are expected to include US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, adding a political dimension to the sporting spectacle. Italian President Sergio Mattarella will receive a special tribute during the ceremony, with organisers keeping several moments under wraps to maintain an element of surprise.
Multi-Venue Celebrations Across Italy
Unlike previous Olympic Games, the 2026 opening celebration will unfold across multiple locations, with Milan hosting the main event. Satellite celebrations, such as athlete parades, will also take place in Predazzo, Livigno, and Cortina d'Ampezzo, allowing athletes and spectators outside Milan to participate in the momentous occasion. The joint hosts, Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, are situated approximately five hours apart, emphasising the widespread nature of these Winter Games.
This innovative approach aims to foster inclusivity and showcase Italy's diverse regions, enhancing the overall experience for both participants and viewers worldwide. As the Clooneys and other celebrities settle in, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable start to the 2026 Winter Olympics, blending sport, culture, and entertainment on a grand scale.
