The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina kicked off with a visual spectacle on February 6, but a “Satanic” photo from the opening ceremony has quickly gone viral, sparking intense online debate.

The controversy centers on the Olympic cauldron, which some social media users claim resembles an inverted pentagram, a symbol often associated with the occult.

Critics point to a specific moment where the kinetic cauldron, designed by Marco Balich, expanded into a star-like shape.

Viral posts have labelled the structure an “upside-down pentagram,” with some commentators accusing organizers of engaging in “ritualistic symbolism.”

One widely shared post alleged that the design and dual lighting were “occult signals” hidden in plain sight.

Organisers have moved quickly to clarify the intent. According to official design notes, the cauldron draws inspiration from Renaissance geometry and the notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci.

Artistic directors stated the patterns were meant to symbolize “harmony, continuity, and the relationship between nature and human innovation.”

Despite these calls for unity, the “Satanic” claims continue to circulate alongside reports of political boos during the Parade of Nations.