The IOC offers the following Video News Release to all news agencies, broadcasters and online news platforms free of charge. STORY SCRIPT: The Olympic flame for the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 was lit today in ancient Olympia, Greece. This marks the start of its journey to China where, in just over 100 days, the Games will begin. As a symbol of peace, unity and solidarity, the Olympic flame will convey the values of Olympism to all those that see it on its travels. The flame will help build anticipation amongst Olympic fans eager to witness the world’s best winter sport stars in action, whilst also inspiring thousands of athletes who are making their final preparations for these Games. Speaking at the ceremony in ancient Olympia, which was held under strict conditions due to COVID-19 countermeasures, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Bach made it clear that the Olympic Games have always stood above conflict: “In our fragile world, where division, conflict and mistrust are on the rise, the Olympic Games always build bridges. They never erect walls.