The Flame of Peace for the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Bakuriani 2025 has been lit by Georgian athletes Ms Anastasia Mirianashvili, Mr Nikoloz Egadze, and Bakuriani 2025 Organising Committee President Mamuka Khabareli at a stunning ceremony in Rome, Italy.
Held at the historic Mercati di Traiano in the Italian capital, the lighting marks an important milestone with less than 50 days to go until the opening ceremony on 9 February. Bakuriani 2025 is the 17th edition of the Winter EYOF and will be held between 9 and 16 February.
In addition to the lighting of the Flame of Peace, dignitaries were treated to live performances from both Italian and Georgian musicians. The Organising Committee also received the EOC’s Olive Tree, a gift presented to the hosts of each EYOF. The Olive Tree, a sacred symbol of peace and victory, has been used since ancient times by Olympic athletes. It will remain in Georgia until the end of the festival, symbolising the lasting bond between the Games and the spirit of peace.
EOC President Capralos highlighted the profound symbolism of the ceremony and expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with the Georgian hosts, as preparations continue for Bakuriani 2025.
President Capralos said: “The Flame of Peace lighting ceremony for Bakuriani 2025 was a powerful reminder of the significance and inspiration that the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival brings to the EOC and our NOCs.
“As well as providing our best young athletes with their first experience of an international multi-sport event it also serves as a platform to instill Olympic Values and Olympic Spirit.
We are delighted with the exceptional efforts of our Georgian partners, who have demonstrated a deep commitment to the festival’s success. We are confident that their outstanding work will result in a memorable Winter EYOF.’’
Georgian NOC President Leri Khabelov thanked the EOC and Rome for hosting the ceremony and reiterated their commitment to providing all stakeholders with the best possible conditions for the EYOF.
President Khabelov said: “We are honoured to be trusted by the EOC to host the 17th edition of the Winter EYOF and to be in Rome for the lighting of the Flame of Peace. The Georgian NOC is committed to supporting the EOC and athletes from across the continent and are confident that they will have the best possible opportunity to thrive in Bakuriani, Batumi and Tbilisi, as was the case in 2015 when our country hosted the Summer EYOF in our capital.”
Bakuriani 2025 President Mamuka Khabareli confirmed that his team are ready to welcome the young athletes and all stakeholders in February.
President Khabareli said: “We are incredibly excited for Bakuriani 2025 and to showcase the beauty of our region. As we approach February, we are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience, and are working tirelessly to ensure everything is in place for our young athletes and guests.”
There were further speeches during the proceedings from Minister of Sport for Georgia, Shalva Gogoladze, Head of the Sports Department – Presidency of Ministers Council, Flavio Siniscalchi, President of the Capitol Assembly of the City of Rome, Svetlana Celli, and Italian NOC Secretary General Carlo Mornati.
