An outstanding reception for the Opening Ceremony of the XXV Winter Olympic Games: this is revealed by data collected by the IOC Insight & Analytics COO Division on a sample of 14 countries in addition to Italy.
According to the survey — conducted across Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, France, Indonesia, India, Japan, Mexico, the Republic of Korea, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States — the show was appreciated by 9 out of 10 international viewers and by 8 out of 10 viewers in Italy.
The most memorable Winter Olympic Opening Ceremony ever
Seventy per cent of international respondents declared they consider the Olympic Opening Ceremony the most memorable in Winter Games history. In Italy, the percentage rises to 73%, slightly higher than the international audience.
The show as a “driver” toward the Games
The most surprising element of the research concerns the ceremony’s driving effect. The majority of viewers reported feeling even more motivated to follow the rest of the Games after watching the show: nearly 9 out of 10 international viewers (87%) and more than 8 out of 10 viewers in Italy (83%).
The most appreciated moments and the representation of the Italian Spirit
The approximately three-hour ceremony alternated artistic performances — dance, music and spectacular scenography — with moments celebrating sport, excellence and Italian culture.
Eighty-nine per cent of both international and Italian respondents stated that the show strongly embodied the Italian spirit. The public was particularly captivated by the performances of the many guest artists and the dance ensemble, identified as the most appreciated element by 41% of international viewers and 39% of the Italian audience.
In second place for appreciation was the parade of athletes, which energised and engaged spectators. A result confirming the event’s success and its ability to win over audiences worldwide.
Learn more about the Winter Olympics 2026 here.
