MotoGP legends stepping into the spotlight as torchbearers for the Milan Winter Olympics is an inspiring sight, showcasing the intersection of sports and culture in a grand event. Notable figures from the MotoGP world, including the two-time world champion Pecco Bagnaia and the iconic Giacomo Agostini, are set to carry the Olympic flame as part of this prestigious occasion.
The 2026 Winter Olympic Games will unfold in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo from February 6 to February 22, with the much-anticipated opening ceremony occurring at the historic San Siro Stadium. This momentous event will mark the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, symbolizing the official commencement of the 25th Winter Games.
The journey of the Olympic torch began its traditional relay on November 26, 2025, in Greece, and made its way to Italy on December 6, igniting excitement among sports enthusiasts across the nation. A wide array of Italian sports personalities have participated in this relay, proudly representing their respective disciplines, with several prominent names emerging from the MotoGP community.
Max Biaggi, a two-time World Superbike champion and four-time 250cc world champion, was one of the first to carry the torch on the inaugural day of the Italian segment of the tour. Following him was Danilo Petrucci, who has earned victories in two MotoGP races, carrying the flame on December 8. On December 15, Tony Cairoli, a nine-time Motocross world champion, joined the ranks of torchbearers, while on January 5, Paolo Simoncelli—father of the late MotoGP racer Marco Simoncelli and owner of the SIC58 Moto3 team—had his turn. He expressed the deep emotional significance of the occasion, stating, "I won’t hide the fact that this makes me very emotional. Thanks so much for the invitation to me, because I think it is a tribute to my son Marco. I hope he will watch us and be satisfied. I give a huge importance to the Olympics, because they should be a sign of peace and reunion for all peoples. Maybe they will help make people think. For me, they are fundamental."
On January 11, the spotlight will be on Pecco Bagnaia, as he takes his turn as a torchbearer. Meanwhile, the legendary Giacomo Agostini, who holds an impressive record as a fifteen-time grand prix motorcycle world champion, is scheduled to carry the torch on January 26. Interestingly, one notable absence from this illustrious list of Italian torchbearers is the celebrated Valentino Rossi.
In addition to these MotoGP icons, the world of motorsport has also seen other notable figures participating in the relay, such as former Formula 1 driver and Le Mans champion Antonio Giovinazzi, along with his compatriot Antonio Fuoco, who is also a winner at Le Mans with Ferrari in the WEC.
This unique blend of sports history and celebration invites us to reflect on what the Olympics represents—a gathering of nations, a commitment to peace, and the joy of competition. What do you think about the choice of torchbearers? Are there other athletes you would have liked to see take part? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
