Exactly one year before the opening ceremony, the large clock that will count down the 365 days of anticipation until the sporting event, scheduled from August 21 to September 3, 2026, in Taranto, was unveiled.

The ceremony, held in front of city hall, was attended by Massimo Ferrarese, Special Commissioner and President of the Organising Committee; Davide Tizzano, President of the International Committee; and Mayor Piero Bitetti, among others.

“This is a moment of joy for our region,” said Ferrarese. “What I ask of the citizens and all institutions is: give us a hand. It took seven years to prepare for this, and now we must achieve it in just two and a half years since we began - an extraordinary challenge.”

At the heart of the evening was the unveiling of the countdown clock, accompanied by a spectacle of sounds and projections that transformed the square into a collective celebration.

Culture also played a central role, with the Magna Grecia Youth Orchestra performing a program designed to showcase local talent. A panel discussion featuring well-known local athletes further highlighted the role of sport in education and community development.

The evening concluded with the illumination of the Aragonese Castle in the colours of the Games, symbolising the official start of preparations for an event expected to leave a lasting legacy in visibility and infrastructure for the city and surrounding region.

Competitions will be held not only in Taranto, but also in Lecce and Brindisi. Major facilities set for renovation or redevelopment include the Erasmo Iacovone Stadium, PalaRicciardi, the swimming stadium and the water sports centre. The projects were awarded through a single tender launched by Sport e Salute.

The international sporting event will bring together 5000 athletes from 26 countries across Europe, Africa and Asia. The Mediterranean Games, a multidisciplinary event inspired by the Olympics, are open to Mediterranean nations and selected inland countries, aiming to promote sport and cooperation among Mediterranean peoples.

Italy holds the record for the most medals in the history of the Games, thanks to legendary champions such as Pietro Mennea, Sara Simeoni, Yuri Chechi, Federica Pellegrini and Vanessa Ferrari.

The first edition was held in 1951 in Alexandria, Egypt, while the most recent took place in 2022 in Oran, Algeria.

ANSA