The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will feature the Essential torch, designed by Carlo Ratti to showcase the flame's motion rather than focusing solely on the torch. Characterized by its flared, open-top design, the torch promotes minimalism while also highlighting a warmer, yellow flame generated by mixing oxygen with bio-gas. Weighing only about 2 pounds, these reusable torches can be refueled up to 10 times, minimizing production for the Olympic Torch Relay. The design and concept reflect the Games' expansive, multi-city nature while embracing sustainability and efficiency.
"The open-top design is crucial to how the flame comes to life," explains Ratti, emphasizing that 'what's important isn't the torch, but the flame.'
Each torch has an air intake near the upper cone that allows oxygen to mix with bio-gas, generating a warmer, more natural yellow flame that aligns with the Olympic spirit.
When the torch is in motion, that same openness helps produce what we call the 'flag flame,' a dynamic, horizontal flame that trails behind the torchbearer while running.
The Essential torches communicate a message of minimalism, of doing more with less, aligning with the ethos of the most widespread Winter Games.
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