Premier Giorgia Meloni announced on Thursday that Naples will host the 2027 America's Cup.
"I am proud to announce that the America's Cup will be held, for the first time in history, in Italy," said Meloni.
"Naples will be the city that will host the 38th edition of the world's most famous and prestigious sailing tournament in 2027, a global event that involves millions of enthusiasts and represents a unique synthesis of tradition, technological innovation, engineering excellence and competitive spirit.
"I thank Sport and Youth Minister Andrea Abodi, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, (the) Sport e Salute (agency) and all those who have worked, with passion and determination, to achieve this great result.
"The choice of Naples will help strengthen the renewed starring role being played by southern Italy, which in recent years has been able to rediscover its dynamism and pride, recording GDP and employment growth that is above the national average.
"Organizing the America's Cup in Naples will also allow us to accelerate the impressive redevelopment and regeneration plan launched by the government to transform the Bagnoli area into a modern tourist, seaside and commercial hub. "The choice of Italy is a choice that makes us proud, because it is a recognition of the very identity of our Nation.
"Indeed, we would not be what we are without the sea.
"The sea represents history, identity, culture but also an irreplaceable part of our productive and economic system, thanks to the leadership position we hold in the nautical, shipbuilding, shipping and cruise industries and in many other areas connected to the blue economy.
"We look forward to hosting the America's Cup.
"Italy will be up to this challenge, and will once again demonstrate to the world what it is capable of".
Manfredi expressed satisfaction too.
"This is the biggest sporting event Naples has ever hosted, a global event that will see our wonderful gulf become the stage for spectacular races between the best sailing teams in the world," he said.
"It is an opportunity to show the world not only the beauty of our scenery, but also the city's ability to competently face the great challenges of the present".
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