Italy’s Sports Minister and Cardinal Zuppi Sign Protocol to Upgrade Oratori Facilities

Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi and Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, signed a protocol to develop and refurbish sport spaces in parish youth centers (oratori) located in socially fragile urban areas. The agreement allocates €50 million from the Development and Cohesion Fund 2021‑2027, with an additional €50 million to be awarded in a forthcoming call, and earmarks €19.5 million for 2025‑2028 to support sports activities and educational functions. Beneficiary oratori must contribute at least 15 % of costs. A permanent technical table will coordinate implementation between the ministry and the CEI, focusing on new playgrounds, renovation of existing facilities, and creation of multifunctional sports areas to combat school dropout, educational poverty and youth distress.

Separately, the Umbria regional government announced a €4 million allocation from the same cohesion fund to further renovate oratori and other community spaces. The funding, spread over 2026‑2028, will cover maintenance, restoration, safety upgrades, accessibility, energy efficiency and the creation of spaces for educational, recreational and sporting activities, reinforcing the role of oratori as hubs of social cohesion.