Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra has been named as one of the torchbearers for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics to be held in Italy from February 6 to 22, 2026. Bindra, who won India’s first individual Olympic gold in the 10m air rifle at the 2008 Beijing Games, on Wednesday announced.
“Truly humbled to be chosen as the torch bearer for the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Torch Relay. The Olympic flame has always held a special place in my heart – a symbol of dreams, perseverance and the unity that sport brings to our world,” Bindra said on his X page.
Binder’s appointment as torchbearer for the 2026 Games underlines his lasting legacy within the Olympic movement. Bindra’s new role, which met the nation’s expectations at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is seen as a continuation of his symbolic presence in international sport. In his post, he went on to note: “To lead it once again is an honor and a beautiful reminder of what sport makes possible. Thank you, @milanocortina2026 for this incredible honor.”
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be the fourth Winter Games hosted by Italy, with events taking place in both Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. The expanded program will feature 116 medal events in 16 disciplines – an increase of seven events and one discipline compared to the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
The Olympic torch relay is one of the most recognized traditions of the Games, symbolizing the continuity and values of the Olympic movement. As a torchbearer, Bindra will join an international group of athletes and dignitaries to carry the flame through various regions en route to the opening ceremony. The Relay will engage communities across Italy, celebrate the Olympic ideals and promote the excitement of the Games.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
October 22, 2025
