Gail Miller carries Olympic torch through Milan ahead of 2026 Games

The businesswoman and philanthropist reflects on the legacy of Salt Lake City's 2002 Olympics as Utah prepares to host again in 2034.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Gail Miller, a key figure in Utah's preparations for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games, carried the Olympic torch through a busy shopping center in Milan on Thursday evening. This marked her second time participating in a torch relay after previously carrying the flame during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Miller reflected on the lasting impact of the 2002 Games and what they brought to Utah, and expressed excitement about the Olympic movement's ability to unite people across cultures and generations.

Why it matters

Gail Miller's participation in the Milan torch relay is significant as Utah looks ahead to hosting the 2034 Olympics. As a long-time advocate of community involvement, volunteerism, and philanthropy, Miller's support and enthusiasm for the Olympic movement helps build momentum and excitement for Utah's upcoming hosting duties.

The details

During the torch relay, Miller walked her portion through the CityLife Shopping District in downtown Milan, drawing cheers from the crowds. She noted that she never expected to carry the torch through a shopping mall, but said it was a unique and memorable experience. Miller emphasized the lasting impact of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, highlighting how the venues built for those Games are still being enjoyed by the public today. She believes the Olympic movement continues to unite people across cultures and generations.

  • On February 6, 2026, Gail Miller carried the Olympic torch through a busy shopping center in Milan, Italy.
  • In 2002, Gail Miller previously carried the Olympic torch during the Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah.
  • Utah is preparing to host the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The players

Gail Miller

A businesswoman and philanthropist who is a key figure in Utah's preparations for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has been a long-time advocate of community involvement, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

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What they’re saying

“It was so emotional to know all those people were here cheering on for the same thing and knowing that I get to be part of it. They don't even know who I am.”

— Gail Miller (ksltv.com)

“We're willing to put our time and our money assets together to make that happen. It's not a selfish thing. It's something that we do willingly, that we do for the benefit of others.”

— Gail Miller (ksltv.com)

“You look at what happened in 2002 with our venues that are still viable today, and all the people that been able to enjoy them because the Olympics were there. Without the Olympics, we wouldn't have had these venues for people to enjoy.”

— Gail Miller (ksltv.com)

“Isn't that the exciting thing about the Olympics? It brings people together.”

— Gail Miller (ksltv.com)

“It's a unique experience. I never thought about going through a shopping mall, carrying the torch. I'll remember that forever.”

— Gail Miller (ksltv.com)

What’s next

Gail Miller said she will be nearly 90 years old when Utah hosts the Games in 2034 but said she would gladly participate again if given the chance. She expressed a desire to bring the energy she felt in Milan back to Utah as the state prepares to host the Olympics.

The takeaway

Gail Miller's participation in the Milan torch relay highlights the lasting impact of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics and the excitement surrounding Utah's preparations for the 2034 Games. Her commitment to community involvement and philanthropy exemplifies the Olympic movement's ability to unite people across cultures and generations.