The inaugural ‘Italian Sport Around the World Day’ event was celebrated at the Venetian Palace, hosted by Italy’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Giorgio Marrapodi.
THE event, organized to promote the sharing of experiences and to identify successful and innovative models between Italy and Türkiye, honored two distinguished guests: A National Football Team Coach Vincenzo Montella and A National Women’s Volleyball Team Head Coach Daniele Santarelli.
A PLATFORM FOR SHARING AND ENCOURAGEMENT
In their opening remarks, TFF (Turkish Football Federation) President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu and TVF (Turkish Volleyball Federation) President Mehmet Akif Üstündağ spoke about the universal values of sport, which serves as a platform for sharing and encouraging youth. They also highlighted the upcoming 2032 European Football Championship, which will be co-hosted by Türkiye and Italy, emphasizing that sport can be a tool for strengthening relationships even further.
THE DUO OF SPORTS AND DIPLOMACY
“Sport and diplomacy are a fundamental duo in today’s world,” said Ambassador Marrapodi in his speech. He added, “The ‘Italian Sport Around the World Day,’ initiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani, is an opportunity to reaffirm the values that unite cultures and societies. Italy is a pioneer in this field, as evidenced by the hosting of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina.”
BONDS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES
Montella and Santarelli, addressing distinguished guests from civil society and the media world in the magnificent setting of the Venetian Palace, emphasized the numerous ties and interactions between the two nations, drawing from their personal experiences. They also discussed important topics related to the world of sports, where sensitivity is shared between Italy and Türkiye.
