Italian
Historic result of the Italian delegation at the European Summer Games Virtus 2026. A total of 166 medals won with 67 golds, 55 silvers, and 44 bronzes
BYDGOSZCZ (POLAND) – A dream Italy at the European Summer Games Virtus 2026. The Azzurri of FISDIR return from their expedition in Poland with an extraordinary haul of 166 medals, consisting of 67 golds, 55 silvers, and 44 bronzes, placing them among the best nations in the continental event dedicated to athletes with intellectual and relational disabilities. An excellent outcome that saw the Azzurri compete at the highest levels in all the disciplines present at the Games.
Swimming definitely takes the lead with an incredible contribution of 88 medals, including 28 golds, 35 silvers, and 25 bronzes. In addition, there are the two European records by Eleonora Esposito in the 100 meters breaststroke II3 and that of the 4×50 men’s freestyle relay II1, composed of Andrea Ranxha, Eros Negro, Marco D’Aniello, and Alessandro Agosto.
Excellent results also in athletics, where Italy brings home 38 medals, including 22 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze. In addition to the haul, there are six world records: Andrea Mattone in the 400 meters II3, Agnese Spotorno in the 400 meters II3, Luca Venturelli in the 1500 meters II3, Giovanni M. Zaramella in the 1500 meters II2, Chiara Zeni in the 100 meters II2, and Luigi Casadei in the javelin throw II1. Additionally, there is the Italian record of Chiara Masia in the discus throw II1.
Another standout discipline was Indoor Rowing with 27 medals, including 14 golds, 6 silvers, and 7 bronzes. A historic debut instead for cycling, with the blues successfully winning four medals (2 golds and 2 bronzes).
The tennis tournament also awarded the European and World titles simultaneously, with Emanuele Bezzi becoming the European Champion in men’s singles, also winning the silver medal at the World Championships, while Gabriele Vietti added to the Italian medal tally with the European silver and the World bronze.
A good contribution has also been made by Table Tennis which added 7 medals to the medal tally, including 3 silvers and 4 bronzes.
Statements
These are the words of the President of FISDIR, Francesco Ambrosio:
“What makes me most satisfied is not just the number of medals won, but the level of performance that our athletes have shown throughout the event. The records, the technical results, and the consistency with which the Italian Delegation has managed to be a protagonist in different disciplines demonstrate the value of the journey built over these years. It is a team that competes with quality, determination, and a great awareness of its own abilities.
The European Summer Games give us a very clear picture of the level achieved by FISDIR: a Federation that is growing, investing in people, and able to express excellence in all disciplines. Every medal, every record, and every performance tells a shared project, built together with athletes, coaches, sports clubs, and federal staff. This is the most important legacy we bring back to Italy and it encourages us to look forward with confidence to the upcoming international events.»
Behind these results is a Delegation that has distinguished itself not only for the value expressed in competition but also for the extraordinary team spirit that accompanied each athlete throughout the event. The work of the coaches, sports clubs, medical staff, managers, and volunteers has been a fundamental element in achieving a goal that belongs to the entire FISDIR movement.
The Head of Delegation, Floriana De Vivo, also expressed her satisfaction at the end of the event:
« We close the European Summer Games with a legacy that goes beyond medals. We have seen our athletes face every competition with determination, support each other, and represent Italy with a great sense of belonging. The 166 medals won are the result of a journey built together with athletes, coaches, sports clubs, and staff. We return home with extraordinary results, but above all with the awareness of being a united team, ready to face the upcoming challenges.»
Photo Credits: comitatoparalimpico.it
