Indian shooting icon Abhinav Bindra has been named an official torchbearer for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, a recognition of his historic Olympic triumph and enduring contribution to sports. The Games will be held in Italy from February 6 to 22, 2026.
Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, achieved global acclaim with his victory in the men’s 10m air rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The honour coincides with the torch relay, which will traverse 12,000 km across Italy, involving over 10,000 participants, celebrating unity and the Olympic spirit.
“Lighting the Olympic flame is a symbol of dreams, perseverance, and unity,” Bindra said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the Games in a new role. Authorities including the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) lauded his selection, citing his embodiment of sportsmanship and national pride.
Born in Dehradun in 1982, Bindra debuted at the 1998 Commonwealth Games as a teenager, gradually carving a path to historic glory. His 2008 Olympic gold not only set a new Olympic qualifier record but also marked India’s first individual gold. Alongside the Olympics, he clinched the 2006 World Championship title and accumulated over 150 medals at Commonwealth, Asian, and other international competitions.
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Since retiring in 2016, Bindra has invested in nurturing future athletes through the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, integrating sports science and technology to strengthen grassroots development. He also serves on the IOC Athletes’ and Education Commissions, championing athlete welfare globally.
The Milano Cortina 2026 torch relay begins with the traditional lighting of the flame at Olympia, Greece, before winding across Italy for 63 days. Bindra’s inclusion as a torchbearer reaffirms his lasting connection to the Olympic movement and marks his second such honour.
The relay not only signals the commencement of the Winter Games but symbolises peace, friendship, and cultural diversity. The organisers chose torchbearers like Bindra for their inspirational achievements and societal contributions, aiming to highlight values that transcend borders.
Bindra’s recognition demonstrates how sporting excellence can inspire beyond medals. His journey reflects perseverance, humility, and social commitment, reinforcing the Olympic ideals of excellence, friendship, and respect.
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