Puglia Designated European Region of Sport 2026, Unveiling Ambitious Sports Agenda

Italy - Ekhbary News Agency

Puglia Celebrates 'European Region of Sport 2026' Title with Major Sports Investment Plan

The Puglia region of Italy is set to solidify its prominent position within the national and European sporting arenas, having officially received the prestigious title of 'European Region of Sport 2026'. This significant accolade, celebrated at a grand ceremony held at the Kursaal Theatre in Bari, underscores the region's dedication to fostering a vibrant sports culture and hosting high-caliber international events.

The announcement ceremony was attended by a distinguished assembly of sports and political leaders. Notable figures included the President of the Puglia Region, Antonio Decaro; the Regional Councillor for Welfare and Sport, Cristian Casili; the President of the Italian Paralympic Committee (CIP) Puglia, Gianni Romito; the Regional President of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) Puglia, Angelo Giliberto; the Regional Coordinator for Sport and Health Puglia, Luca Balasco; the President of ANCI Puglia, Fiorenza Pascazio; and the President of ACES Europe, Vincenzo Lupattelli. This high-level participation signifies the strategic importance Puglia places on sports development.

During the event, several exciting new initiatives were unveiled as part of Puglia's 2026 sports agenda. A key highlight is the organization of the 'Trofeo Coni' (Coni Trophy) for the first time in Puglia. This major multi-sport event is expected to bring together approximately 4,500 participants, including athletes, accompanying persons, and sports federations, offering a unique platform for youth competition and camaraderie.

Furthermore, after a 38-year hiatus, the 'Trofeo delle Regioni' (Regions' Trophy), a significant national football event for U19 players, will return to Puglia. The revival of this historic tournament is seen as a crucial step in celebrating football heritage and nurturing young talent.

President Antonio Decaro expressed immense pride in presenting Puglia as the European Region of Sport. He noted that 2026 will be a particularly special year for the region, as it will also host the Mediterranean Games. Decaro emphasized that sport in Puglia transcends mere competition, describing it as "a spectacle and an opportunity for personal growth, social cohesion, and public health." He also announced a new tender worth €3 million aimed at transforming sports into a tourism driver. Highlighting the economic impact, he mentioned that 11% of tourism in Puglia is already linked to sporting events, and this new initiative seeks to support the organization of events that will further promote the region's territory.

Cristian Casili, the Regional Councillor for Welfare and Sport, thanked ACES Europe for the prestigious recognition, viewing it as a testament to the region's successful efforts in recent years and the highly regarded strategic planning for 2026. Casili revealed a significant regional investment of €10 million dedicated to a range of sports activities, encompassing both national and international events. The focus will also extend to schools through a new project titled 'Sport, School, and Inclusion,' and to supporting individuals with disabilities via funding for crucial inclusion initiatives.

Fiorenza Pascazio, President of ANCI Puglia, spoke about the deep love for sports among Puglians and its profound impact on psychophysical well-being and socialization. She stressed the educational value of sports in steering young people away from deviant paths, calling it an opportunity for municipalities and a catalyst for regenerating sports facilities, particularly in the region's inland areas which possess significant potential for sports development.

Vincenzo Lupattelli, Vice President of ACES Europe, affirmed that the 'European Region of Sport 2026' designation validates Puglia's commitment to promoting sport as a tool for inclusion, health, and community growth. He described the announced program as ambitious and one that effectively leverages the role of sport in territorial development.

The detailed plan for 'Puglia European Sport 2026' allocates €8 million specifically for the year 2026. This budget includes funding for major media and tourism-impact events, €1.4 million for co-financing additional large sporting events, €450,000 for regional sports festivals, and €600,000 for sports projects and summer camps targeting youth and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, €120,000 is earmarked for the 'Running in Puglia' program, supporting road, trail, and mountain running races. Contributions will also be made for sports equipment, support for athletes with disabilities, travel expenses, and recognizing sporting excellence.

Alongside these direct supports for sports activities, the region has outlined a substantial investment plan for sports infrastructure spanning from 2026 to 2030, estimated at approximately €88 million. This funding will come from regional sources, European programming, and the Development and Cohesion Fund, aiming to construct and upgrade public and inclusive sports facilities, ensuring modern and accessible sporting environments for all residents.

Ekhbary News Agency