Italy's Sport Minister Abodi and Cardinal Zuppi sign €50m sports pact

On 1 July, Italy’s Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, President of the Italian Episcopal Conference, signed a protocol of understanding to develop and refurbish sport spaces in oratories located in socially fragile urban areas. The agreement allocates €50 million from the Development and Cohesion Fund (2021‑2027) and commits an additional €19.5 million for 2025‑2028, with a further €50 million to be offered in a forthcoming call. Beneficiaries must contribute at least 15 % of project costs.

The funds will be used to build new playgrounds, upgrade existing sports facilities and create multifunctional areas for sport, recreation and educational activities. A permanent technical table comprising the ministerial office and the CEI will coordinate, monitor and support implementation. The initiative aims to counter school dropout, educational poverty and youth distress by promoting sport, healthy lifestyles and community cohesion. Abodi said the pact “invests in children, adolescents and young people, offering them safe, free places to grow through sport,” while Zuppi highlighted its role in fostering hope and inclusion for new generations.