The official torch for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics, the 'Essential', has been unveiled. The unveiling of the torch was made more meaningful by the participation of legendary athletes such as Stefania Belmondo, the last torchbearer of the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics, Paralympic champion Bebe Bio, Sochi Olympic bronze medalist Carolina Kostner, and Paralympic champion Martina Caironi.
The torch was designed by architectural studio Carlo Ratti and manufactured by Cavagna Group with technical support from Italian energy company Eni and its affiliate Versalis. As its name suggests, it is a simple and restrained form that emphasizes the centrality of the flame, and it embodies the essence of Italian design where technology, innovation, and sustainability come together.
The Olympic torch is blue-green, reminiscent of the sky, while the Paralympic torch is bronze, and each has its own unique meaning. The former symbolizes change and hope, while the latter symbolizes the courage to overcome obstacles and change the world.
The 'Essential' torch is made entirely in Italy and weighs only about 1,060 grams, excluding the fuel tank. The main body is made of recycled aluminum and brass alloy and can be recharged and reused up to 10 times, minimizing environmental impact. The fuel used is bio-LPG produced from waste cooking oil, animal fat, and agricultural waste at the Enilive bio-refinery in Gela, Sicily.
The handle is made of XL EXTRALIGHT®, an eco-friendly polymer material, which is also made from Versalis’ bio-based polymer. The exterior uses PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) technology to show mysterious colors that reflect depending on the surrounding light. The open design that partially reveals the internal structure conveys the technical principles of the torch to the public and provides a new experience.
