by InTrieste
Interview: FVG councilor for tourism, Sergio Bini; Trieste councilor for sports, Elisa Lodi
The Italian Women’s Volleyball Super Cup final will take place in Trieste on October 18, bringing top national teams and internationally renowned players to the Allianz Dome. Regional officials say the event reflects Friuli Venezia Giulia’s growing role as a host for major sporting competitions and its strategy of linking sports to tourism, economic growth, and social welfare.
At a press conference in Trieste, Regional Councillor for Productive Activities Sergio Emidio Bini described the final as “a valuable opportunity” for the city and the region. He highlighted the event’s potential to attract visitors and strengthen Friuli Venezia Giulia’s reputation as a destination for high-profile competitions, citing the Barcolana sailing regatta and previous stages of the Giro d’Italia as similar success stories.
The presentation was attended by Enzo Barbaro, general director of the Italian Women’s Volleyball League, Alessandro Michelli, president of the regional volleyball federation, and Andrea Marcon, head of the Italian National Olympic Committee (Coni) in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Bini extended greetings from Regional President Massimiliano Fedriga and thanked the national sports organizations for selecting Trieste as the venue.
Regional leaders argue that large-scale sporting events deliver both visibility and tangible benefits, from hotel bookings to restaurant revenue. According to Bini, these gatherings provide “a showcase at both the national and international level” while also reinforcing the region’s credibility as an organizer.
The Allianz Dome, one of Trieste’s key modern sports facilities, has already hosted significant volleyball competitions, including the Italian Cup final in February. The region has also welcomed the UEFA Super Cup in Udine last summer and the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF). Officials say these successes are possible thanks to cooperation between institutions, sports federations, and local clubs.
Beyond the economic dimension, Bini emphasized the social and educational role of sports, particularly for young people. “When young people see winning teams, they are inspired to practice, to grow within structured environments with clear rules,” he said, describing sports as “a form of social welfare, a tool for cohesion and inclusion.”
Friuli Venezia Giulia, he added, will continue to support both major international competitions and grassroots youth programs. With ticket sales for the Super Cup already strong, officials expect a turnout comparable to February’s volleyball final, which drew a large crowd at the same venue.
