Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony Mired in Lip-Sync Controversy
The glittering opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan has been overshadowed by a growing controversy surrounding the performance of global pop icon Mariah Carey. Organisers have pointedly refused to deny widespread speculation that Carey lip-synced during her segment of the show, held at the iconic San Siro stadium.
Show Director Confirms Pre-Recording but Praises "Extraordinary" Act
Mariah Carey took to the stage to deliver a rendition of the classic Italian song "Nel Blu, dipinto di Blu" by Domenico Modugno, followed by her own hit "Nothing Is Impossible." However, viewers and social media commentators were quick to allege that her lip movements appeared out of sync with the audio on several occasions.
When pressed directly on whether Carey had sung live, the ceremony's director, Maria Laura Iascone, confirmed the existence of a pre-recorded track but remained evasive on its use. "During all the ceremonies, in order to be on the safe side, we always record," Iascone stated. "But this is something that is practised internationally in events with high-level broadcasting."
Despite the ambiguity, Iascone was effusive in her praise for Carey's contribution. "Yesterday’s performance was really extraordinary," she insisted. "It was fantastic for everybody and we are all satisfied by the results we had. And the images can prove it to you all, because there was magic."
She also revealed that Carey performed without financial compensation, highlighting the singer's commitment to the event. "She was not paid for participation as this was the condition for the opening ceremony. We were really honoured to have her with us," Iascone added, noting the local appreciation for Carey's decision to sing an Italian song.
IOC Addresses Political Reception and Looks Ahead to LA 2028
Separately, the International Olympic Committee moved to downplay the audible booing directed at US Vice President JD Vance during the ceremony. IOC spokesperson Mark Adams instead focused on the enthusiastic reception given to the American team and the positive discussions about future Games.
"With the next games coming up in Los Angeles we are super happy, very happy that the U.S. administration is so engaged with the games here and going forward," Adams commented. He noted "very good chemistry" between Vance and IOC member Kirsty Coventry during talks concerning the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Sabotage Incident Mars First Full Day of Competition
In a concerning development away from the ceremony, Italian authorities reported a suspected act of arson on rail infrastructure near Bologna. The fire, described by the transport ministry as "serious sabotage," damaged a track switch and critical electrical cables, causing significant delays to high-speed and regional services.
A police spokesperson indicated the blaze was "presumably deliberate," though no group has claimed responsibility. The ministry drew parallels to disruptions on the opening day of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, but asserted that such actions would not tarnish Italy's global image during the Games.
As the Winter Olympics proceed, the focus remains split between athletic competition and the unfolding narratives from a dramatic opening, setting the stage for an eventful fortnight in Milan.
