Naples – Fifty-six sporting events, including competitive and inclusive competitions, in over 21 disciplines: these are the numbers of "Naples European Capital of Sport 2026," the prestigious title awarded to the city in November 2023 after a victory against Zaragoza.
The program, presented today by Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, is the result of close collaboration between the City of Naples, CONI, and Aces Europe. "We have a packed calendar, organized with national federations and local sports facilities," Manfredi explained. "But we won't limit ourselves to events: we will complete renovations to swimming pools, pitches, and facilities in the municipalities, leaving a tangible legacy for the suburbs and young people. Sport in Naples will be competitive and global, but above all, social."
A lineup packed with international highlights
The calendar ranges from athletics to basketball, cycling to sailing, including tennis, padel, martial arts, swimming, fencing, and Paralympic sports. Highlights include:
The Neapolis Marathon and the Naples Bike Festival.
European Fencing Championships and European Under-23 Judo Championships.
International tennis and padel tournaments.
Stage of the Giro d'Italia (fifth consecutive in Naples).
The opening match of the European Men's Volleyball Championships will be held in Piazza Plebiscito in September.
America's Cup pre-regatta in June, preparatory to the 2027 edition in the city.
"These world-class events are the result of the authority this administration has regained," added Sports Councilor Emanuela Ferrante. "At the same time, we're focusing on infrastructure to leave a legacy for the Neapolitans."
Beyond competitive sport: inclusion and culture
Not just competitions: the program includes innovative formats such as the Notte Bianca dello Sport, the Pink Up Festival, and the Sport Kids Festival, to promote inclusion and public participation. There will also be conferences, school seminars, wellness days, and initiatives to promote sports culture.
The press conference, moderated by the Municipality, featured speeches by Vincenzo Lupattelli, president of Aces Europe (Italian delegation), Sergio Roncelli, president of the Campania National Olympic Committee (CONI), and Gianfranco Coppola, president of the Italian Sports Press Union.
Naples is thus preparing for a 2026 as a global leader, with sport as a driving force for social and urban development.
Changes and revisions to this article
- Article updated on 30/12/2025 at 15:00 PM - Content structure updated
- Article updated on 30/12/2025 at 15:02 PM - Content typo corrected
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
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