Giochi del Mediterraneo, a Taranto l’evento dei record

The 20th Mediterranean Games concluded in Taranto, with 3,800 participants from 26 countries across the Mediterranean. Organizing committee president Massimo Ferrarese stated that this was the most significant event ever held in Southern Italy. Merez Boussayene, the first vice-president of the international games committee, thanked Italy and the athletes, praising the sports facilities that continue to serve the sport and young people.

Carlo Molfetta, the games director, declared Taranto the edition of records, with 931 medals awarded, including 22 in more than Bari's previous record of 193. Andorra won its first medal, and Turkey achieved its 1,000th medal in the Mediterranean Games. Media coverage exceeded 10,000 articles in Italian and 50 languages, with over 15,000 social media views in August alone.

The museum MarTa attracted 8,000 visitors, 3,000 young athletes participated in collateral sports events, and over 90,000 attended territorial events. Ferrarese reported that 172,500 tickets were sold, with 32,855 for ceremonies and 140,000 for other disciplines. For football matches, 47,268 tickets were sold, generating 1.17 million euros in revenue.

Between August 24-27, more than 600 transfers were made using a fleet of 145 buses. Ferrarese thanked the city of Taranto and its residents for opening their arms to thousands of visitors. The city and region provided the opportunity to achieve these results, and some inconvenience was apologized for. Ferrarese highlighted the leadership of the organizing committee and the technical commission, led by engineer Silvio Scarcelli, who took on significant responsibilities, including managing the games without funds or decrees.

The government's presence in June 2023 was also acknowledged. The secretary general of the international games committee, Iakovos Filippousis, praised the impact of the event on Taranto, transforming the city into a modern and advanced location that has improved the hopes of generations.