by Maxiiliano Crocamo
The Olympic flame for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games arrived in Trieste on Friday, where regional officials used the occasion to emphasize sport’s broader social, cultural and public health significance.
Speaking at the welcoming ceremony, Massimiliano Fedriga, president of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, said the Olympic torch symbolizes more than athletic excellence, describing it as a reminder of civic values such as commitment, resilience and the ability to face failure. In remarks aimed beyond the sporting world, Mr. Fedriga said sport offers an alternative to what he described as increasingly superficial models of success, reinforcing the importance of effort and perseverance in public life.
The event was attended by local and regional authorities, including Trieste’s mayor, Roberto Dipiazza, and marked one of the relay’s stops as the flame travels across Italy ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Mr. Fedriga also framed sport as a key component of health prevention policy, warning of declining participation in physical activity among working-age adults. While incentives exist for young people and older adults, he said, professional and family obligations often lead to reduced physical activity in midlife, contributing to chronic health conditions and placing additional strain on the national health system.
He reiterated the region’s focus on promoting healthy lifestyles through a combination of regular physical activity and balanced nutrition, announcing a strategic initiative that will begin in schools and extend to the wider community.
In addition, Mr. Fedriga pointed to the growing visibility of Friuli Venezia Giulia through sports-related events and branding efforts, citing international exposure from competitions such as the Alpine Skiing World Cup in Tarvisio and partnerships in basketball, volleyball and soccer. He said these initiatives have contributed to increased tourism and economic activity in the region.
