European Capital of Sport 2026: Naples selected among the finalists

European Capital of Sport 2026: Naples selected among the finalists.

ACES Europe identified the two finalist cities, Napoli e Zaragoza. The last fundamental step in view of the designation will be the visit that the members of the ACES International Commission will carry out in Naples, from 26 to 29 October, to evaluate logistical and operational aspects. The findings of the report presented by the University of Kosice, which was the basis for the identification of the finalists by ACES Europe, recognize the validity of the candidacy presented by Naples and, in particular, the possession of the requirements linked to projects that follow the ethical principles of sport. The title of European Capital of Sport commits the city designated to organize at least 36 events of national and international importance.

“We have just learned that our city, candidate for European Capital of Sport 2026, has been officially selected, together with the city of Zaragoza, as one of the two finalists for the title and the Municipal Administration is deeply proud of the news learned – states theCouncilor for Sport and Equal Opportunities Emanuela Ferrante -This demanding and international challenge represents a great and indispensable opportunity for Naples to promote and promote sport even further in the area, attracting high-level tourism, important investments to be allocated to the construction and renovation of sports facilities and to make sport a fundamental tool for improving the quality of life of our children and all citizens, guaranteeing integration and social growth. Good luck for the final!”.

“Naples intends to be ready for this important event. The designation as European Capital of Sport 2026 would constitute recognition of the value of sport for our city – underlines the mayor Manfredi – and an incentive for completing the plant upgrade plan that our Administration is carrying out. We are engaged in carrying out maintenance interventions on existing structures with municipal funds and in the design and construction of new systems, thanks in particular to Pnrr funds. This will make it possible to strengthen competitive and basic sporting activities with their very high value in terms of psychophysical well-being and social inclusion. At the same time, the sporting events organized as the European Capital of Sport would represent a further showcase for Naples, with important implications for tourism".