At the Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games, the Italian judo team secured three bronze medals on the opening day of the discipline’s competition at the Pala Wojtyla in Martina Franca, according to reports from La Presse. Giulia Ghiglione in the 48 kg division, Michela Terranova in the 57 kg division, and Valerio Accogli in the 66 kg division all reached the podium. Meanwhile, archer Gregori claimed a silver medal in the archery tournament, adding to the Italian delegation’s medal count during the multi-sport event celebrating nations across the Mediterranean basin.
Italjudo Opens Taranto Campaign With Three Bronzes
The Italian national judo squad stepped onto the tatami at the Palazzetto dello Sport in Martina Franca, locally known as the Pala Wojtyla, to kick off a busy three-day combat schedule. Giulia Ghiglione set the tone for the delegation by taking bronze in the women’s 48 kg category. She was quickly followed on the podium by Michela Terranova, who captured bronze in the 57 kg class, and Valerio Accogli, who earned a third-place finish in the men’s 66 kg division.
While three athletes successfully claimed medals, four additional Italian judokas narrowly missed podium finishes during the opening day. Gaia Stella in the 52 kg category, Andrea Carlino in the 60 kg class, Fabrizio Esposito in the 73 kg division, and Manuel Parlati in the 81 kg weight class all finished in fifth place in their respective brackets, according to match reports.
Gregori Secures Archery Silver
Away from the combat mats, the Italian archery contingent added a significant podium result as Gregori secured a silver medal in the tournament.
Broader Mediterranean Games Context
The performances in judo and archery form part of a broader wave of competition for the Italian team at the Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games. Alongside the combat sports and field events, Italian athletes have featured prominently across the schedule, including strong showings in swimming where competitors like Benedetta Pilato and Razzetti captured gold medals, as well as team success in disciplines like football.
As the multi-sport competition continues, athletes across combat sports, target disciplines, and aquatic events turn their attention to the remaining medal sessions and upcoming elimination rounds.
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