Greeting from the Mayor Salis

For our city, it is a source of great pride to host the World Orienteering Championships, one of the most prestigious events on the international sports calendar.
Welcoming athletes from all over the world means placing Genoa at the heart of an event that brings together sport, culture, and the discovery of the territory. Orienteering is a discipline that values the intelligence of movement, the ability to find one’s way, respect for the environment, and an authentic relationship with places, values that we deeply identify with and that perfectly reflect the identity of our city.
For me, having dedicated my life to sport, first as an athlete and then as Deputy Vice President of the Italian National Olympic Committee, this event also holds personal significance: it represents the highest expression of a sport that educates, includes, and builds relationships, both on and off the field.
The urban and natural routes that will host the competitions will offer a unique experience, crossing through the historic heart of Genoa and its extraordinary landscape, where the sea, hills, and cultural heritage coexist in a truly unique way.
On behalf of the City Council and the entire city, I warmly welcome the athletes, technical staff, volunteers, and fans who will take part in this major event. Genoa is ready to welcome you with its energy, its history, and its ability to look to the future through sport. We look forward to seeing you!