The Olympic Winter Games held in Northern Italy began with a vibrant pop show, however, the atmosphere was mixed as not all segments received unanimous applause. After a lengthy program that lasted for three and a half hours, Italy's skiing legends Alberto Tomba and Deborah Compagnoni finally lit the Olympic flame, symbolizing the start of the games. By that time, the attendance at Milan’s San Siro Stadium had dwindled significantly, with many spectators leaving before the conclusion of the ceremony. In Cortina d’Ampezzo, where alpine ski racer Sofia Goggia carried the final torch, only a handful of dedicated fans remained outside to witness the festive lighting of the flame. Other locations such as Predazzo and Livigno, where athletes had previously paraded, finished their segments well before the midnight hour, further indicating the waning interest as the ceremony dragged on. This illustrates the challenges of evoking Olympic excitement amidst such an experimental format in Italy. While the ceremony showcased impressive visuals and celebrated the spirit of international unity through art and performance, the mixed reception, especially towards certain political elements, highlights the sensitive nature of international events and the potential for political messages to overshadow the festive atmosphere. The Olympic games not only provide a platform for athletic achievement but also for underlying tensions to surface, as evidenced by the reactions during the opening ceremony.