Why Italy’s Return to Antalya Matters

Antalya is hosting the largest field of the 2026 season so far, with 332 archers from 42 countries competing at the Gloria Sports Arena. For Italy, this event serves as both a benchmark and a springboard—an opportunity to refine their compound program while maintaining their recurve dominance. The timing is critical, as several nations are using this stage to prepare for upcoming multisport competitions, including the Asian Games and Mediterranean Games.

The Italian team’s journey to Antalya is particularly notable for Morello, who recently won silver in the recurve men’s individual event at the 2024 World Archery Field Championships and gold in the mixed team event at the 2022 Yankton World Cup. Now competing in compound for the first time at this level, Morello’s rapid rise in the discipline—culminating in a bronze medal at the Swiss Open Lausanne in October 2025—highlights Italy’s growing versatility in archery.

The Italian Team’s Key Players and Their Path to Antalya

While Morello’s transition to compound is the most high-profile story, Italy’s recurve team remains a force to be reckoned with. The nation’s athletes have consistently delivered at major competitions, and their presence in Antalya underscores their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. The team’s recent success at the European Championships—where they secured multiple podium finishes—has set the stage for their World Cup debut.

Marco Morello (Compound): After a storied career in recurve, Morello’s shift to compound archery has been nothing short of remarkable. His bronze medal at the Swiss Open Lausanne in October 2025 marked a significant milestone in his new discipline, and his performance in Antalya will be a key indicator of Italy’s potential in compound archery on the global stage.

Recurve Squad: Italy’s recurve athletes, including those who competed at the European Championships, will be looking to replicate their form. Their experience in high-pressure events—such as the World Archery Field Championships—will be crucial as they navigate the competitive field in Antalya.

Antalya 2026: A Stage of Global Significance

This year’s Antalya stage is the third of the Hyundai Archery World Cup season, and it stands out as the largest gathering of archers to date. The Gloria Sports Arena, a venue with a decade-long history on the World Cup circuit, will host all four current world number ones: Mathias Fullerton, Andrea Becerra, Marcus D’Almeida, and Kang Chaeyoung. Reigning Hyundai Archery World Cup Final Champions Emircan Haney and An San are also in attendance, adding to the event’s prestige.

For Italy, competing in Antalya is not just about individual performance but also about positioning the team for future success. The event’s role as a preparatory stage for major multisport competitions adds an extra layer of significance, as athletes from across the globe use it to fine-tune their skills before facing off in the Asian Games and Mediterranean Games.

What to Watch in Antalya: Italy’s Tactical Approach

Italy’s archery team will need to balance their recurve strengths with Morello’s compound debut. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Morello’s Adaptability: How quickly can Morello transition from recurve to compound in a high-stakes environment? His performance will be a litmus test for Italy’s compound program.
• Recurve Consistency: Italy’s recurve athletes will face stiff competition from world number ones and other top-tier teams. Their ability to maintain consistency under pressure will be critical.
• Team Synergy: With a mix of recurve and compound athletes, Italy will need to demonstrate strong teamwork and adaptability in both disciplines.
• Preparation for Multisport Events: Many teams, including Italy’s, are using Antalya as a dress rehearsal for upcoming competitions. Their performances here will offer clues about their readiness for those events.

The Broader Context: Italy’s Archery Renaissance

Italy’s archery program has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, with athletes consistently medaling at major championships. The transition of players like Morello to new disciplines—such as compound—reflects a strategic effort to diversify the team’s strengths. This approach not only keeps Italy competitive but also ensures they remain adaptable in an ever-evolving sport.

The success of athletes like Hazal Burun, who won bronze at the 2024 World Archery Field Championships and followed it up with a European title in 2026, further underscores Italy’s growing influence in the sport. While Burun is not competing in Antalya, her recent achievements set a high bar for the Italian team’s overall performance.

What Happens Next: Italy’s Schedule and Upcoming Challenges

The Hyundai Archery World Cup in Antalya runs from June 10–15, 2026. For Italy, the event is a critical checkpoint in their preparation for the Asian Games and Mediterranean Games, both of which will feature archery competitions later in the year.

Following Antalya, Italy’s archery team will need to maintain their momentum as they prepare for these multisport events. Their performances in Antalya will not only contribute to their World Cup standings but also serve as a benchmark for their readiness to compete at the highest level in the coming months.