The 22-year-old Florence-born athlete jumped 6.87 metres on her second try, qualifying directly for the final which required 6.75, only behind US athlete Tara Davis-Woodhall, who landed at 6.90.
The women’s long jump final is scheduled for Thursday.
“Finally, I’m an Olympic athlete,” said the daughter of two-time world champion Fiona May.
Iapichino could not participate in the Tokyo Olympics three years ago due to an injury.
This morning (AEST), Italy’s Mattia Furlani won the bronze medal in the men’s long jump final with an 8.34 metre effort.
Italy’s Mattia Furlani after the men’s long jump final. (Photo: AAP)
Meanwhile, Nadia Battocletti finished fourth with a national record of 14:31.64 in the Olympic 5000m race after a jury rejected the counter-appeal filed by Italy following the readmission of Kenia’s Faith Kipyegon.
Kipyegon, who finished second (14:29.60) in the race on Monday night, was initially disqualified for obstruction following an incident between her and Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay with two laps to go.
Following an appeal, World Athletics confirmed that she had been reinstated as the silver medallist.
Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet won the gold medal (14:28.56).
ANSA
