Taranto, 21 November 2025 – Today’s visit by the Minister for Sport and Youth, Andrea Abodi, marks a significant step forward in the lead-up to the XX Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026. His presence confirms the Government’s continued focus on the event and its willingness to work in close synergy with all institutions involved.
Accompanied by the Director General Carlo Molfetta, the Directors of the Operational Areas of the Organising Committee, and his institutional staff, the Minister carried out a series of inspections and meetings at several strategic sites that will host competitions and activities during the Games.
The day opened at the Olympic Swimming Pools, the core of the future Sports Quadrilateral, where progress on the works and the functions of the new facility were presented.
The delegation then moved to the Erasmo Iacovone Stadium, one of the main hubs of Taranto 2026, where the Minister examined the status of the construction works and discussed project developments with the site managers.
Minister Abodi expressed his appreciation for the quality of the ongoing works and the attention devoted to safety on site. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to maintaining constant oversight of the infrastructure development and a continuous dialogue with all territorial institutions. “I am satisfied with what I have seen. The planning is on track and deadlines are being met. A great deal has been achieved in just one month,” stated Minister Abodi.
The visit continued at Taranto City Hall, where the Minister met with Mayor Pietro Bitetti for a detailed discussion on the status of the works and the broader urban regeneration initiatives underway.
“Today’s meeting reaffirms the institutional cooperation that is already in place and essential to the success of the Games. It confirms the shared commitment established in recent months: to enhance the entire Ionian area and ensure that Taranto is recognised for its landscape and cultural heritage,” said Mayor Bitetti.
Afterwards, the delegation visited the Naval Station Command of the Italian Navy, welcomed by Admiral Andrea Petroni (Interregional Maritime Commander South), Rear Admiral Andrea Ventura (Commander, Second Naval Division), and Captain Antonio Palombella (Commander, Naval Station). Discussions focused on the logistical functions of the infrastructure in view of the Games.
In the afternoon, inspections continued in Martina Franca and Massafra.
The visit confirms a shared commitment to moving forward in a coordinated and results-oriented manner, strengthening a model of synergistic collaboration. A joint effort to deliver a Games edition capable of leaving Taranto and the surrounding territory with a tangible, modern, and lasting legacy.
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