Spoleto hosts Hippo The Contest 2026 world finals

Spoleto is hosting the world finals of the 14th edition of Hippo ‘The Contest’, an international English language competition. The event features approximately 240 finalists representing more than 60 countries. The competition follows a rigorous selection process involving 108,000 registered students globally, with qualifying rounds held in various regions including Thailand, Azerbaijan, and Italy.

One notable participant is Beatrice Di Grado, a twelve-year-old student from the ‘Altra Lingua’ school in Sciacca. After achieving an excellent score in the initial stages, she bypassed the continental phase to qualify directly for the world finals in Spoleto, representing Italy in the global competition.

The event, which is sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Municipality of Spoleto, included a parade through the city's historic center. The closing ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 30 at the Teatro Nuovo Giancarlo Menotti.