Italy's Masterpiece: Gold for Iapichino and 4x400m Relay, Azzurri Crowned European Champions

Italy concluded its triumphant campaign at the European Athletics Championships by topping the final medal standings, highlighted by gold medals in the long jump and the men's 4x400m relay. The nation's strong performance culminated in a dramatic final day of competition.

Larissa Iapichino set the tone early, delivering a precise 7-meter jump on her first attempt in the long jump. While not her personal best, the distance proved sufficient to put pressure on her competitors. The competition was challenging, affected by wind and cold temperatures that caused numerous fouls, notably for German favorite Malaika Mihambo. Iapichino's mark narrowly edged out Great Britain's Jazmin Sawyers (6.99m) and France's Hilary Kpatcha (6.98m), securing her first major international gold medal.

The marathon events also saw Italy perform well, with Pietro Riva earning a silver medal and the women's team securing a silver in the team classification. The relay events also brought success, particularly the women's 4x400m team, which secured a bronze medal. Despite a dropped baton in the mixed 4x100m relay, the women's 4x400m team, featuring Alessandra Bonora, Anna Polinari, Alice Mangione, and Eloisa Coiro, fought hard, with Coiro consolidating third place after her Italian record in the 800m.

The men's 4x400m relay team delivered a spectacular finish. Anchored by strong performances from Luca Sito in the second leg and the young Mohamed Soudassi in the third, Lorenzo Benati held off a strong British challenge in the final stretch to clinch the gold medal. This victory capped off Italy's exceptional performance at the championships.

National director Antonio La Torre declared, "This is the strongest Italy ever." He noted that this expedition surpassed the success of the Rome championships and that competing against Great Britain, a nation with a "immense culture," and ultimately triumphing, was "superlative." La Torre sees this success as a significant boost for the upcoming years, with Los Angeles 2028 as the next major destination. He also commented on how the team rallied after the injury of sprinter Jacobs, with captains motivating the rest of the squad.

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This is the strongest Italy ever. This expedition is better than that of Rome. We have made almost repeatable what seemed unrepeatable. Competing in a Nation that has an immense culture, and managing to hold our own against Great Britain until the end, is something superlative.