by InTrieste
The small but picturesque town of Tarvisio is set to take center stage in the world of alpine skiing. From February 24 to March 6, the Friuli Venezia Giulia region will host the Junior Alpine Ski World Championships, an event that local leaders say will boost international visibility and strengthen Italy’s reputation as a premier winter sports destination.
“This event is part of a broader strategy to enhance our region through effective communication and organizational excellence,” said Massimiliano Fedriga, governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia, at a press conference announcing the championships. “Major events like this not only increase our visibility but also open the door to new opportunities on the global stage.”
Fedriga praised Regional Tourism Councillor Sergio Emidio Bini and PromoTurismoFVG, the regional tourism board, for securing the event, emphasizing that the 2024/25 winter season is already delivering exceptional tourism figures. The championships, he noted, further solidify the region’s standing as a top-tier winter sports hub.
A Region on the Rise
The decision to bring the championships to Tarvisio comes amid record-breaking tourism growth in the area. During the recent holiday season, visitors to Tarvisio surged by 49%, reflecting the increasing appeal of the region’s alpine offerings.
Councillor Bini, speaking at the press conference, framed the event as a landmark achievement for the region’s tourism industry. “This is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase what Friuli Venezia Giulia has to offer,” Bini said. “Beyond our world-class facilities, we provide a breathtaking natural backdrop, with attractions such as the Fusine Lakes and Monte Lussari.”
Beyond its scenic allure, the event is also proving to be an economic driver. Organizers estimate the championships will generate 6,320 overnight stays, offering a significant boost to hotels, restaurants, and local businesses in the region.
Quality Over Cost
In a departure from previous host cities, officials say they have managed to keep costs down while maintaining high standards. According to Bini, Friuli Venezia Giulia will spend just one-third of what other locations have in past editions, underscoring the region’s ability to balance quality with financial sustainability.
“We have demonstrated that a world-class event can be delivered efficiently,” Bini said. “This proves that with careful planning, we can offer elite competitions while ensuring economic responsibility.”
A Global Showcase for Young Athletes
The Junior Alpine Ski World Championships will bring together 382 athletes from 60 nations, offering a glimpse into the next generation of skiing talent. Organizers hope that the event’s free public access will encourage broader participation and excitement around the sport.
“This is not just about competition; it’s about accessibility,” Fedriga said. “By making the event free to attend, we are inviting everyone—from local families to international visitors—to experience world-class skiing firsthand.”
With a growing reputation as a winter sports powerhouse, Friuli Venezia Giulia is positioning itself as a serious contender in the race to host future international competitions. And with the Junior Alpine Ski World Championships set to bring the world’s attention to Tarvisio, the region is making its case—one downhill run at a time.
Interview: governor of FVG, Massimiliano Fedriga
