The President of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee, Vessela Letcheva, was a guest of the Italian Ambassador, Marcello Apicella, at the embassy in Sofia. Letcheva and Apicella discussed joint initiatives ahead of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, which open on February 6 at the San Siro Stadium.
Italy is hosting the biggest sporting event for the fourth time after Cortina 1956, Rome 1960, and Turin 2006.
“Italy has proven itself to be an excellent organizer not only of the Olympic Games but also of a number of other major competitions. I have no doubt that you will show the best of your country and be hospitable to all athletes. Italy has been through a tough time with the COVID pandemic, and it’s symbolic that these are the first Winter Games that will have an audience again and full stands, which is the most important thing for such a sporting event,” said Letcheva.
Marcello Apicella assured that his country is ready to welcome the best athletes in the world, including the Bulgarian winter sports competitors who have won quotas. The Italian ambassador noted that he is proud that his compatriot led the Bulgarian national team to silver medals at the World Volleyball Championship and that Bulgaria will host the popular Giro d’Italia cycling race next year.
“Bulgaria and Italy have traditionally good relations in sports. Many of our elite athletes play in your clubs and have wonderful careers and opportunities for development. Not only athletes, but all other citizens respect your country because of football, volleyball, basketball, skiing, all the disciplines you develop, as well as your history, culture, tourism, and cuisine,” added Letcheva].
The Olympic Games in Milanо-Cortina are an example of a global competition in which ecology will be a leading priority. The organizers are making extensive use of existing facilities and infrastructure to reduce costs and environmental impact, with 85% of the facilities already in place, Leшcheva and Apicella noted in their conversation.
For the first time, two fires will be lit simultaneously – in Milan and Cortina, with the main Bulgarian group expected to be at the opening in Cortina.
