Games to be organized in Taranto from Aug. 21 - Sept. 3
The 2026 Mediterranean Games was a central theme of discussion at the second Italian Sports Day in the World, the ANSA news agency reported Wednesday.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation promoted the Games to highlight Italy’s excellence through sports.
A ceremony at the Villa Madama in Rome featured addresses by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, as well as Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi.
Also in attendance were Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI); Marco Giunio De Sanctis, president of the Italian Paralympic Committee, and Matteo Zoppas, president of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA).
The second Italian Sport Day in the World placed a special focus on mountain and sea disciplines, presented through the voices of leading athletes and champions.
Tajani stressed that sport is a true national industry, generating €24.7 billion ($28.9) in added value, employing more than 400,000 people, and accounting for 1.38% of GDP.
Tajani said Italy ranks among the world’s top five exporters of sporting goods, with exports worth €4.7 billion, and is second within the EU, as sports diplomacy is an integral part of Italy’s growth strategy.
Abodi underlined that the Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026 will be more than a sporting competition. He said it will serve as a platform for dialogue and exchange to foster a more peaceful Mediterranean and a world that, despite ongoing challenges, continues to strive for peace.
He underlined that sport is a powerful tool of diplomacy and cooperation. It has the capacity to strengthen Italy’s reputation and prestige on the international stage, contribute to the growth of the national system, and showcase the value of daily teamwork and commitment.
The 20th Mediterranean Games will from Aug. 21 - Sept. 3, 2026.
