The Mediterranean Games have been held for almost 70 years, but due to less media attention compared to the World Cup or the Euros, few people have heard of them. For these games the organisers are planning to reduce the capacity of the stadium, which does not appeal to the local community.

Less than 27,000 seats

The decision to reduce the capacity of Stadio Erasmo Iacovone was taken for several important reasons. First of all, international safety standards require strict controls. Reducing the number of seats will allow the flow of spectators to be better managed.

In addition, the stadium underwent renovation work that required the closing of some sectors. The modernisation of the facility was aimed at bringing it up to modern standards, which involved a reduction in the number of seats.

Another reason was the concern for spectator comfort. Fewer seats will make it possible to offer more space and better services, which will have a positive impact on the quality of the event experience.

Negative reactions from community

The decision was met with different reactions among supporters. Many residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the reduction in the number of available seats. However, the local authorities stress the importance of safety and the quality of the event, asking the community to understand the reasons for the decision.

© Robert Saganowski, Stadiony.net

Three rings

The Mediterranean Games are international competitions held every four years that bring together athletes from the Mediterranean. The first edition took place in 1951 in Alexandria, Egypt. In 2026, the competition will be held in Taranto, Italy. They are scheduled to start on August 21 and end on September 3 . There have been 33 sports in the history of the Games.

The symbol of the event is the three rings, which symbolise Europe, Asia and Africa, the three continents bordering the Mediterranean Sea. In the lower part, the appearance of the rings is blurred, as if they were submerged in the rippling waters of the sea. The logo was first used at the 1979 Mediterranean Games in Split. During the opening and closing ceremonies of the Games, the flag is handed over to the city that will host the athletes in four years' time.

© Robert Saganowski, Stadiony.net