Yesterday, the ‘Sala Paolo Rossi’ hosted a training session with representatives from the Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (LND) Major Events Commission. The session was opened by LND President Giancarlo Abete and coordinated by Benedetta Geronzi, Head of the Institutional Area. The initiative aimed to provide a 360-degree deep dive into the organization of institutional and sporting events, covering everything from initial planning to final execution and communication.

The Institutional Area addressed the multidisciplinary aspects of major events through its key functions: Institutional Initiatives, Protocol, Sustainability, and European Projects, while also analyzing critical challenges and illustrating various case histories.

EVENTS. The Institutional Initiatives team focused on event organization, detailing the FIGC methodology across different stages: from strategic planning and location scouting to working group coordination and operational management. Concrete examples highlighted how a structured approach helps manage the complexity of large-scale events.

PROTOCOL. The Protocol section explored the role of official procedures in managing sports and institutional events, specifically regarding the reception and management of authorities. Emphasis was placed on maintaining relationships with national and international institutions, ensuring correct seating arrangements (placement), and managing flows within VIP areas to align with the Federation’s institutional image.

SUSTAINABILITY. Regarding Event Sustainability, FIGC presented the social and environmental sustainability format introduced in October 2024 for the Men’s National Team home matches. This operational model integrates accessibility actions—such as audio description, quiet rooms, and the inclusion of vulnerable groups in catering—and circular economy initiatives, such as sustainable catering and food surplus recovery, in line with UEFA and FIGC Sustainability Strategies. Additionally, the session illustrated the models used for FIGC Bid Dossiers for international events and UEFA strategies for competitions like UEFA EURO 2024 Germany and the UEFA Super Cup Udine 2025.

EUROPEAN PROJECTS. The meeting also highlighted the European Projects area, which develops, coordinates, and reports on programs co-funded by the European Commission. The focus was on the strategic role of events, tournaments, and press conferences in showcasing results. Best practices from ongoing FIGC-led projects were shared, including BELONG (social inclusion for refugee adolescents through football) and Hand in Hand (combating gender-based violence through sport involving the Men’s National teams).

CLUB ITALIA. Finally, the role of Club Italia was discussed, focusing on the coordination of national team activities and the organization of matches hosted in Italy. The session highlighted the regulatory differences between friendlies and official UEFA matches, as well as the management of visiting foreign federations (Team Liaison Officers, logistics, hotels, and training grounds). Specific focus was placed on the roles of the Match Manager and Venue Manager in UEFA youth competitions.