Last weekend, the road to the World Orienteering Championships 2026 continued with two important test races in Liguria, as several national teams used the competitions as part of their selection process for next July’s World Championships.

The race package also included training sessions in Pegli and Manesseno, a timed knockout training in Casella, and two model events in Bolzaneto and Arenzano, giving athletes the opportunity to experience a wide variety of terrains and urban environments similar to those expected at the Championships.

Teams from different countries faced two very different challenges during the weekend. The first race took place in Sestri Levante, featuring a fast and flat urban course with a spectacular passage through the famous Baia del Silenzio and directly on the beach, offering athletes and spectators an unforgettable setting.

The second test race was held in Campomorone, an inland town characterized by steep climbs, demanding elevation changes, and highly urbanized labyrinth-like sections that required constant concentration and precise navigation.

Rita Maramarosi and Francesco Mariani claimed a double victory, showing excellent shape and versatility across the technically demanding courses planned by Alessio Tenani and Marcello Lambertini.

With another successful testing weekend completed, the focus now shifts to the WOC Simulation Week scheduled for June, which will represent the final major preparation opportunity before the highlight of the season in July.

At the same time, on 16 May, due to a severe emergency situation, a French athlete and a coach had to visit the hospital in Voltri. Due to the seriousness of the situation, they were immediately transferred to the hospital in Sestri Ponente, located inside one of the embargoed areas. The coach contacted WOC 2026 Technical Director Alessio Tenani to request permission to access the hospital, and permission was immediately granted because of the emergency circumstances. The athlete’s condition has since improved considerably.

The WOC 2026 organisers, together with the International Orienteering Federation advising team, later reviewed the route taken inside the embargoed area (see image) and concluded that no competitive advantage had been gained. They also took into account IOF Competition Rule 14.4, which states that “Permission for access into embargoed terrain must be requested from the organiser if needed.” As a result, both individuals remain eligible to compete in all races at the World Orienteering Championships 2026.