Spectacle marred by an AI cartoon sequence and online backlash
An unexpected flashback drew heat at San Siro
February 7, 2026: The Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony at San Siro Stadium opened with a theatrical retrospective meant to trace 100 years of Games history — but one animated sequence, apparently generated with AI tools and starring Italian actor Sabrina Impacciatore as a cartoon skier, prompted instant criticism from viewers who called it “AI slop.” The segment was widely shared and mocked on social platforms within minutes of broadcast.
Image Credit: Susana Vera/Pool Photo via AP
Creative team and the ceremony’s intent
The ceremony — conceived under creative director Marco Balich and produced as part of the Milano Cortina 2026 program — leaned into Italian culture, fashion and a decentralized format across Milan and Cortina. Organizers positioned the animated flashback as a playful time-travel vignette; critics said it felt cheap and disrespectful to professional animators.
Image Credit: AP Photo/Loaner12
What viewers complained about online
Social posts called out the cartoon’s low quality and accused producers of replacing human talent with algorithmic shortcuts. Comments used the phrase “AI slop” repeatedly, and outlets reported that many felt the sequence undermined otherwise ambitious production values. Supporters countered that the segment led into a live performance by Impacciatore that celebrated Italian costume and choreography.
Image Credit: AP Photo/Petr David Josek
Technology on display — praise and concern
The Milano Cortina Games have leaned hard into tech — from AI-assisted replays to drone choreography — as organizers try to modernize broadcasts and reduce costs. Still, critics argue there’s a difference between enhancing coverage and letting low-effort AI imagery replace craftsmen whose livelihoods depend on commissions for major events.
Image Credit: Andreas Rentz/Pool Photo via AP
Final thoughts
The San Siro ceremony delivered memorable tableaux and national pride, but the animated flashback became the night’s viral headline — a reminder that when mega-events deploy new tech in high-visibility moments, audiences quickly judge whether the choice elevates or cheapens the art.
FAQs
Q1: What exactly was criticized?
An AI-generated cartoon flashback sequence starring Sabrina Impacciatore drew widespread online criticism as low-quality “AI slop.”
Q2: Where did this happen?
The sequence aired during the opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium in Milan for Milano Cortina 2026.
Q3: Who led the ceremony’s creative vision?
Creative director Marco Balich helmed the show’s concept, which mixed spectacle, Italian culture and modern technology.
Q4: Was AI used elsewhere in the Games?
Yes — broadcasters and organizers have integrated AI tools for replays, camera work and production design, sparking broader debate about ethics and craft.
Q5: Did anyone defend the animation?
Some viewers and commentators noted the animation led into a live, celebratory performance and said the overall ceremony still had high points.
