Italy’s triathlon governing body has secured national funding for a year-long programme linking elite competition with regional economic development, positioning lesser-known destinations alongside Rome for international sporting events.

The Italian Triathlon Federation (FITRI) has unveiled Triathlon Experience, a strategic initiative that combines sport, tourism and local development. The initiative was presented at the CONI headquarters in Rome on Jan. 28, 2026 in the presence of Italy’s Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè.

Triathlon Experience will feature four triathlon events throughout the year across the country, with the objective of promoting sustainable sports tourism, facilitating a seasonal diversification of tourist flows, and highlighting Italian destinations that are typically underrepresented in traditional tourism routes.

The four stages of Triathlon Experience will include:

  • Padola (Belluno) – February 27 - March 1: World Triathlon and Paratriathlon Winter Championships;
  • Alghero (Sassari) – May 30: World Triathlon Championship Series, world circuit stage and Olympic qualification;
  • Taranto – August 29: Mediterranean Games, a multisport event; and
  • Rome – October 3: World Triathlon Cup.

The project was conceived by the FITRI team, coordinated by the Secretary General of the sports governing body, Valerio Toniolo. Thanks to its innovative content, Triathlon Experience ranked second out of 206 projects submitted for access to funding from Italy’s National Tourism Fund.

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