The Closing Ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games took place tonight (February 22, 2026) at the historic Arena di Verona (Verona Olympic Arena), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s most iconic venues. This marked the spectacular end to a memorable Games spread across multiple Italian locations.
Greece led the traditional Parade of Nations, with alpine skier Maria Eleni Tsiovolou proudly serving as the country’s flag bearer. As is customary, Greece entered first in recognition of the ancient origins of the Olympic Games in Greece. The 25-year-old athlete (born January 7, 2001, from Volos) carried the blue-and-white flag into the ancient amphitheater, followed by the rest of the small Greek delegation.
Tsiovolou competed in the women’s Giant Slalom during the Games, finishing in 53rd place overall (1st run: 1:17.44, 2nd run: 1:24.47, total time: 2:41.91, +28.41 behind the winner) among the field at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre. She also started in the women’s Slalom but was disqualified (DSQ). This was her second Winter Olympics appearance, following Beijing 2022.
Her entrance with the Greek flag was an emotional highlight, symbolizing national pride amid the ceremony’s dazzling show of music, cultural performances, choreography, athlete tributes, and the traditional handover of the Olympic flag from Italy to France (host of the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps).
The evening wrapped up the Milano Cortina 2026 Games with unforgettable moments, celebrations of athletic excellence, and the extinguishing of the Olympic flame in a truly historic setting. 🇬🇷⛷️