Greeting from the President Giomi

It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome, on behalf of the Italian Orienteering Federation, all the nations, athletes, coaches, and team officials who will take part in the 2026 World Orienteering Championships.
This WOC arrives in a city that already hosted a World Cup round in 2024, proving its organizational capabilities and genuine passion. It is, therefore, also a confirmation: Genoa is ready—once again—to welcome the global Orienteering community and transform itself into a competition arena.
Genoa is a symbolic city: born to look beyond the horizon, overlooking the sea, shaped by steep alleys, squares filled with stories, and a port that for centuries served as a bridge between continents.
It is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus—an emblem of the drive to cross known boundaries and seek out new horizons.
In the same way, you orienteers are modern explorers: you chart your courses through the maps, guided by the rhythm of your run and the strategy of your decisions, always ready to chase new goals—not only on the course, but also within yourselves.

Another iconic figure from Genoa that makes the spirit of these championships even more symbolic is the Mayor Silvia Salis, who has dedicated her life to athletics. Ten-time national champion, Olympic athlete in Beijing and London, and winner of the Mediterranean Games, she has continued her commitment after retiring, becoming Vice President of CONI. A woman who has truly lived the sports experience and who now, with values of dedication, courage, and vision, leads the city hosting the World Championships.
Beyond the competition, Liguria will surprise you: sea and mountains just a step away, the perched villages, the culture, and the flavors of a land suspended between sky and rock.
I invite you to discover it beyond the courses, to experience it and be inspired.

Welcome to Italy,
Welcome to Liguria,
Welcome to Genoa: the city where the horizon always invites you to push further!

Enjoy WOC 2026!