The Italian national archery team is preparing to launch its outdoor season at the European Grand Prix 2026, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Turkey, from April 20th to 26th. In a strategic decision, the team will bypass the opening stage of the 2026 Archery World Cup in Mexico, opting instead to focus on intensive preparation for the upcoming European Championships.
This year’s European Championships will also be held in Antalya, running from May 18th to 24th. Before that, Italian archers may also compete in Shanghai from May 5th to 10th, though participation in that event remains to be determined. A total of 24 Italian archers will participate in the European Grand Prix Spring Arrows in Antalya, evenly split between the recurve and compound disciplines.
Italy’s Squad for the European Grand Prix
The Italian team boasts a strong roster of athletes across both disciplines. In the recurve category, the men’s team will consist of Matteo Borsani, Francesco Gregori, Massimiliano Mandia, Federico Musolesi, Mauro Nespoli and Alessandro Paoli. The women’s recurve team features Tatiana Andreoli, Lucilla Boari, Chiara Rebagliati, Roberta Di Francesco, Vanessa Landi, and Loredana Spera.
The compound team is equally impressive. Marco Bruno, Elia Fregnan, Michea Godano, Lorenzo Gubbini, Marco Morello, and David Pasqualucci will represent Italy in the men’s compound division. The women’s team includes Francesca Aloisi, Elisa Bazzichetto, Giulia Di Nardo, Irene Franchini, Andrea Nicole Moccia, and two-time Indoor World Series champion Elisa Roner.
Matteo Bilisari has been named as the reserve for the men’s recurve team, providing additional depth and flexibility for the squad.
Recurve Men
Matteo Borsani, Francesco Gregori, Massimiliano Mandia, Federico Musolesi, Mauro Nespoli, Alessandro Paoli. (Reserve: Matteo Bilisari)
Recurve Women
Tatiana Andreoli, Lucilla Boari, Chiara Rebagliati, Roberta Di Francesco, Vanessa Landi, Loredana Spera.
Compound Men
Marco Bruno, Elia Fregnan, Michea Godano, Lorenzo Gubbini, Marco Morello, David Pasqualucci.
Compound Women
Francesca Aloisi, Elisa Bazzichetto, Giulia Di Nardo, Irene Franchini, Andrea Nicole Moccia, Elisa Roner.
The decision to prioritize the European Grand Prix and Championships reflects a focused strategy for the Italian archery program. Skipping the World Cup opener in Mexico allows the team to dedicate more time to refining their skills and building cohesion before the major continental event. This approach underscores the importance Italy places on performing well at the European Championships, a key stepping stone towards future international success.
Antalya has become a frequent host for major archery events, offering ideal conditions and a well-established infrastructure for competitions. The city’s growing reputation as an archery hub makes it a natural choice for both the European Grand Prix and the European Championships. For fans following the action, Antalya’s location offers a unique blend of sporting excitement and Turkish hospitality.
The upcoming European Grand Prix will serve as a crucial testing ground for the Italian team, providing valuable competitive experience and an opportunity to assess their readiness for the challenges ahead. With a talented roster and a clear strategic focus, the Italian archery team is poised to make a strong impression on the international stage this season.
Following the European Grand Prix, the team will continue its preparations for the European Championships, also held in Antalya from May 18th to 24th. The Shanghai stage of the Archery World Cup (May 5th-10th) remains a possibility, but the team’s participation will depend on their progress and overall strategic goals.
Archery fans can stay updated on the team’s progress and results through official team channels and coverage from major sports news outlets. The European Grand Prix in Antalya promises to be an exciting start to the 2026 season, setting the stage for a year of intense competition and thrilling performances.
Next up for the Italian archery team is the European Grand Prix in Antalya, beginning April 20th. Keep an eye on Archysport for continued coverage of the team’s performance and the broader world of archery.
