It will also reflect on the lasting legacy such events leave behind for host regions and the broader national landscape. The discussion will be enriched by the voices of athletes, institutional representatives, and figures from the business world. This event holds particular relevance in light of the upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Key themes will include sustainability, inclusiveness, and gender equality—emphasizing the growing and vital role of women in sport and within the broader sporting ecosystem.

【Reflection】
This event was organized by the Italian National Olympic Committee, the Sports Diplomacy Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and International Cooperation, together with the special collaboration of Ambassador Mario Vattani, Italy’s Commissioner General.

Sport is not only an economic driver but a powerful tool for uniting cultures, revitalizing communities, and fostering change. Italy and Japan share a similar vision of the role of local institutions in supporting sports facilities. The upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will serve as a laboratory for innovation, sustainable infrastructure, environmental education, and community engagement, and Italy has underlined the importance of Japan as a strategic asset.

The synergy between Olympic committees, organizing bodies, and local institutions is fundamental for success and long-term impact. Sport also plays a key role in promoting social cohesion and raising awareness of rights, such as gender equality. Paralympic sports in Italy continue to gain recognition, thanks also to champions like Giulia Ghiretti, who have won Olympic gold medals. In addition to that, the Milan Cortina 2026 Foundation is working on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. In fact, the Games aim to minimize environmental impact, as already-existing facilities constitute 85 % of those that will be employed. Schools also play a crucial role in making sports accessible and inclusive. Initiatives like dual-career programs support athletes in balancing education and sports.
The sports industry represents 1.2% of Italy’s GDP, creating opportunities for jobs, diplomacy, and innovation. Sports diplomacy, with 309 global offices and 209 events in 2024, is increasingly seen as a strategic asset. Projects like Campionesse di Innovazione, highlighting women leaders in sports entrepreneurship, reinforce inclusion and sustainability.

Furthermore, the widespread interest in the Giro d’Italia promotes gender inclusivity and showcases Italian territories worldwide, contributing to a booming sports tourism industry in Italy, worth €12 billion in 2024. The former cyclist Ivan Basso shared his personal experience, underlining the importance of the Giro d’Italia both culturally and economically.

Finally, the Olympics’ Closing Ceremony and the Paralympics’ Opening Ceremony will be held in the Verona Arena, meaning a strong impact on the economy of the country and accessibility of the event.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Moving forward, we plan to utilise the insights and suggestions gained from this panel discussion to deepen analysis and visualisation of the socio-economic impacts of sport. In particular, with the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, we will strengthen collaboration with relevant organisations and corporate partners to implement concrete initiatives reflecting the discussed themes of sustainability, inclusion, and gender equality, and to communicate these effectively to the world. Moreover, issues raised during the panel, such as regional sports promotion, talent development, and further social participation of female athletes, will be addressed through diverse approaches, including online seminars leveraging digital technology, on-site workshops, and educational programmes, to create opportunities for local communities and youth to engage proactively with sports culture.

Additionally, we aim to share the outcomes and discussions of this event not only within Italy but also with sports administration and cultural diplomacy stakeholders in Japan and other countries, positioning sport as a model for cultural co-creation and problem-solving in regional development.