CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio and General Secretary Carlo Mornati took part in the Federal Council of the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP), chaired by President Giovanni Petrucci and hosted at the Salone d'Onore of CONI in Rome.

“Nothing happens by chance,” said Italy’s top sports official. “Just a few days ago, you achieved a fantastic result with the women’s team and a phenomenal coach. What I would really like is to come in person to cheer for Italy on 14 September in the final of the men’s EuroBasket. I’m very superstitious, but I’m simply expressing a wish. Among all the challenges ahead, there is one that is especially important – that of Achille Polonara,” he added, referring to the player recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.

Buonfiglio went on to speak about Giovanni Petrucci, to whom he had already extended his congratulations by phone after the women’s team secured their European bronze medal: “I owe a great deal to President Petrucci – he has always been someone I’ve tried to learn from, especially his decisiveness and leadership.”

“We will strive to be worthy of the task and of those we represent – this is my commitment,” added the CONI President, who was elected on 26 June. “It will be a pleasure to take part in your initiatives. I’m proud of all Italian sport. Only we leaders who come from the Federations truly understand the effort made by our clubs. They are the backbone of our system.”

He concluded with some significant announcements: “Last night, together with General Secretary Mornati, we met with Minister Abodi, along with Sport e Salute and the Italian Paralympic Committee (CIP), and we jointly decided that from 2026, the Youth Games for all will begin. I believe we’ve taken a first step. This morning, I met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Tajani: a new initiative will be launched to involve CONI in all activities that promote Italian sport abroad. We are working to ensure that CONI and the Federations take centre stage in every sector.”

FIP President Giovanni Petrucci also shared his thoughts: “There’s a great atmosphere – Buonfiglio and Mornati make an extraordinary team. This is exactly what I had hoped for and wanted. He received broad support and has made an excellent start, showing both substance and humility – not an easy feat. He will do a fine job.”

During the Council meeting, CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio also presented the Golden Star for Sporting Merit to Gigi Datome, the Silver Star to Davide Paolini, and the Bronze Star to Roberto Ciardo.