Gail Miller, a prominent figure in Utah business and philanthropy, participated in the 2026 Olympic torch relay for the Milan Cortina Winter Games on February 5, 2026. As she carried the iconic flame through the CityLife Shopping District in Milan, a large crowd gathered, eager to witness the event and cheer for the torchbearers.
Miller, dressed in a striking white and orange track suit, reflected on the emotional weight of the occasion, emphasizing the shared excitement of the spectators. She enjoyed the cheerful atmosphere as shoppers clapped and shouted encouragement while she completed her leg of the relay, a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Winter Olympics, scheduled to open in just a few days.
Having participated in the torch relay before for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Miller expressed her hopes for the upcoming 2034 Winter Games in Utah, expecting even larger crowds than those in Milan. She underscored the importance of community engagement, looking forward to opportunities that would allow people to participate, volunteer, and share in the Olympic spirit.
Miller is also significant in Utah’s Olympic preparations, as she has initiated the Podium34 fundraising effort aimed at securing financial contributions for the state’s upcoming Winter Games. This campaign has already raised approximately $250 million, relying heavily on private donations to meet its ambitious $4 billion budget. The emphasis was placed not just on the Games but on the lasting impact of such events on local communities, including support programs for athletes with disabilities, housing for competitors’ families, and ongoing volunteer opportunities.
The torch relay included participation from various other Podium34 supporters, showcasing a united front in promoting the Winter Games in Utah. Spencer P. Eccles, Dale O’Blia, David Huntsman, and Amy Garff also carried the flame at different locations throughout Italy, each articulating the profound significance of the Olympic flame as a symbol of hope and unity.
Overall, the relay not only served as a prelude to the 2026 Winter Games but also reaffirmed the shared commitment to fostering community spirit and collaboration among those involved in planning for the 2034 Games. The enthusiasm ignited during this relay signals a promising future for Utah’s hosting of the Winter Olympics, as organizers aim to recreate moments of joy and unity exemplified in Milan.