The next Mediterranean Games will be held in Taranto, Italy, and the organizing committee has already finalized the plan for test events for each sport on the program (which will take place one year before the Games). Among them, triathlon will have a test event on June 29-30, 2025 in the same city and this test event will be organized in collaboration with the Mediterranean Triathlon Federation (MedTF), which has decided to hold its championships to coincide with these tests in Taranto. Therefore, far from being a simple test, there will be an important title at stake.
In the framework of the recent MedTF General Assembly, which took place in Istanbul last weekend, MedTF President Georgios Yerolimpos and the President of the Italian Triathlon Federation Riccardo Giubilei signed the contract for the organization of the event. This agreement reinforces the importance of the Mediterranean Games as a platform for the development of sport in the region.
WHAT ARE THE MEDITERRANEAN GAMES?
The Mediterranean Games are a multi-sport competition that brings together countries from the Mediterranean region. Inspired by the Olympic Games, they emerged in 1951 as a way to foster cooperation and friendship among the nations that share the Mediterranean Sea. The first edition was held in Alexandria, Egypt, and since then 19 editions have been organized, the last one being in Oran, Algeria, in 2022.
This event, held every four years, includes Olympic sports and traditional disciplines of the region. Twenty-six countries from Europe, Africa and Asia participate, making it a unique event that reflects the cultural and sporting diversity of the Mediterranean.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN GAMES
The Mediterranean Games are not only a platform for sports development, but also a space to promote values such as peace, solidarity and understanding between cultures. In addition, they serve as preparation for athletes aspiring to compete in the Olympic Games, as the level of competition is very high.
In economic and social terms, the Games also have a significant impact on the host cities, as they encourage tourism, investment in sports infrastructure and promotion of the region at the international level.
TARANTO, HOST CITY FOR THE 2026 GAMES
Taranto, a historic city in southern Italy, will host the 20th edition of the Mediterranean Games in 2026. With a rich cultural heritage and a strategic location on the Mediterranean, Taranto is already preparing to welcome thousands of athletes and visitors.
The triathlon test event, to be held in June 2025, will be a key opportunity to assess the city’s readiness and ensure the success of the Games. In addition, the partnership with the MedTF reinforces the organizers’ commitment to sporting excellence and international cooperation.