Italian Rugby Federation launches elite youth training program

The Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) has launched its elite youth development project for the 2026/2027 season. A total of 89 athletes have been selected to participate in the Permanent Training Centers (CDFP) located in Milan, Treviso, and Rome.

The program, which runs from September 2, 2026, to June 30, 2027, utilizes facilities at the Istituto Leone XIII in Milan, the La Ghirada Sports Center in Treviso, and the CONI “Giulio Onesti” Olympic Preparation Center in Rome. The initiative emphasizes a “dual path” approach, integrating high-level athletic training with academic requirements to support the personal and cultural growth of the players.

Maurizio Zaffiri, the project’s Operational Manager, stated that the goal is to maximize the potential of each athlete through a collaborative partnership between families, local clubs, the players, and the FIR.