Gravina in Puglia to Host First International Hot‑Air Balloon Competition, the Puglia Balloon Cup 2026

From 24 to 29 August 2026, Gravina in Puglia will host the inaugural Puglia Balloon Cup, the first international hot‑air balloon competition in southern Italy. The six‑day event will bring together leading Italian and European pilots to compete in precision navigation and landing tests under the supervision of an international jury appointed by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) and the Aero Club d’Italia.

Organised by the Aero Club “Nido delle Aquile” and promoted by the Consorzio Landing on South Italy, the Cup is part of the Puglia Regione Europea dello Sport 2026 programme and receives backing from the regional government, the municipality of Gravina, and the nearby city of Matera, the 2026 Mediterranean Capital of Dialogue and Culture. Regional President Antonio Decaro said the competition “offers a new point of observation on Puglia, uniting sport and tourism and showcasing the beauty of the Alta Murgia and its ravines.” The event aims to boost the region’s tourism profile and cement its place on the international aerostatic calendar.