Martial arts icon Jackie Chan brought star power to the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics torch relay this week, carrying the flame through Pompeii's ancient ruins as part of its historic Italian journey. The 72-year-old actor's participation on Monday highlighted growing cultural connections between Asia and Europe ahead of the Winter Games.
The torch is currently winding its way through Italy's Amalfi Coast toward Rome, having already traveled 12,000 kilometers through all 110 Italian provinces. This cultural showcase precedes the February 6 opening ceremony, with Chan's Pompeii leg symbolizing the Olympic spirit bridging ancient and modern civilizations.
Asian diaspora communities worldwide have celebrated Chan's involvement, seeing it as recognition of Asia's global cultural influence. Business analysts note the relay's route through Italy's economic hubs could signal new opportunities in Europe-Asia trade corridors.
