SPORT’S GOVERNANCE AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL IN ITALY

The relevance of the research topic stems from the insufficient degree of study of the regional sports governance system in Italy, in particular the structure of governing bodies, legal regulation and approaches to sports sector funding. 

The purpose of the study was to reveal specific features of sport governance in Italian regions by analyzing the example of Veneto – one of the most developed regions in sport in Italy. 

The methods included analysis of scientific publications and materials from foreign sources, as well as an institutional approach combined with structural analysis and generalization. 

Results. The study revealed strong interdepartmental cooperation between regional sports and healthcare authorities in the Veneto region, active participation of the Regional Olympic Committee in sports promotion, as well as important contribution of the state company «Sport e Salute» and municipalities. The analysis of key regulatory documents and the long-term development plan demonstrated the strategic directions of sport sector development in the Veneto region. The article identifies the specifics of public funding and key areas of expenditure in the regional sports sector. The focus on maintenance and renovation of sports infrastructure is related to the region’s hosting of major international sporting events, including Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Conclusion. Sports management in Veneto is based on long-term strategic planning, coherent interdepartmental cooperation and an effective monitoring system for key sports development indicators. A well-organized governance system along with significant investments in sports infrastructure ensures the leading position of the Veneto region in terms of sports participation in Italy. The obtained research results can be used in terms of improving the sport governance system, including strategic documents generation and formation of federal, regional and municipal programs for physical culture and sports development in the Russian Federation.

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