AP Sports SummaryBrief at 12:51 a.m. EST

The much-anticipated Milan Cortina Olympics have officially commenced, marking the beginning of a unique and expansive Winter Games. The opening ceremonies, a traditional spectacle that heralds the start of the global sporting event, took on a distinct character this year with a multi-site approach, reflecting the spread-out nature of the competitions themselves.

This innovative multi-site ceremony is a defining feature of the Milan Cortina Olympics, setting a new precedent for how the Winter Games can be inaugurated. Instead of a single, centralized event, the decision to host the opening across multiple locations underscores the geographical distribution of the various sporting venues. This approach not only showcases the diverse landscapes and cities involved in hosting the Games but also potentially allows for a broader engagement with local communities across the host region.

The official opening signifies the culmination of years of planning and preparation, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete on the grandest stage. For the Milan Cortina Olympics, the 'spread-out Winter Games' concept implies a broader geographical footprint for the events, which the multi-site ceremony effectively communicates from the outset. This strategic choice aims to integrate the Games more deeply into the fabric of the host territories, rather than concentrating all activities in one singular hub.

As the world turns its attention to Milan and Cortina, the official opening ceremony serves as the symbolic gateway to weeks of thrilling winter sports action. The multi-site format promises a fresh perspective on Olympic traditions, emphasizing inclusivity and the vastness of the host region. This commencement not only ignites the competitive spirit but also invites global audiences to experience the unique character of these particular Winter Games, defined by their distributed nature and innovative ceremonial approach.