Interview to Francesco Ettorre, Italian Sailing Federation's president

2023 was an extraordinary year for the Italian Sailing Federation, characterized by numerous sporting successes in different classes.

“Yes, 2023 was truly exceptional for the Italian Sailing Federation. We have recorded significant sporting successes in many classes, from juniors to Olympic Classes and ocean sailing. I would avoid making a detailed list, also because it would be very long, but I am extremely proud of all our winning athletes and of the movement that is making Italian sailing one of the most competitive in the world. This year, the number of members has firmly returned to exceeding 150,000 members (157,278 ed.) and demonstrates that the direction taken is the right one. The visibility of the Federation and of sailing in general has constantly increased, creating a virtuous circle within which we are the driving force and driving force for sports and companies that are part of this path."

From this point of view, the Federation has changed profoundly in recent years, the relationship with the sponsors has changed.

“Absolutely, it was one of the non-sporting priorities that I had since my first mandate: making the Federation attractive for sponsors. This is definitely a process that takes years but the direction is the right one. We have top-level companies and leaders in their specific sectors who have believed in the Federation with whom we are working solidly. We aim to structure the sector better and better to give opportunities to those who want to invest compared to those who are affiliated or registered with our Federation."

Let's go back to political and institutional relations: the role of FIV with World Sailing has strengthened Italian leadership at an international level.

“The Federation's positioning with World Sailing has been fundamental to our international growth. It has allowed us to consolidate our leadership in recent years, opening up new opportunities and improving our visibility globally. Constant dialogue and collaboration have certainly contributed to the successes of Italian sailing. This strong synergy has not only brought tangible results on the field, but has also strengthened our presence and influence in the international sailing scene. A strong and credible Federation at an international level allows it to be a point of reference also at a national level, and vice versa. ”

The FVillage and the three academies (Foil, Para Sailing and Mini 650 ed.) represent crucial points in the path of Italian sailing.

“With FVillage and the three academies, we aim to make sailing more accessible and engaging for the general Italian public and beyond. These initiatives are designed to promote participation and grow the sailing movement in our country, offering training opportunities and involving different categories of enthusiasts. The FVillage has become a point of reference for sailing enthusiasts of all ages, a place where you can breathe the passion for this sport and where the foundations are created for future generations of sailors. The three Academies specifically worked independently for specific growth steps. The Mini 6.50 Academy was born this year with the idea of ​​institutionalizing a relationship with a class which is the first step for ocean navigation. For years we have had a privileged relationship with the Ministers, with the Ocean Race, The grand finale, we wanted to give substance to this Academy. As regards the Para Sailing Academy, the structure has been strengthened while maintaining one objective: the return of Para Sailing to the Paralympics. Italy is at the forefront from this point of view and our Academy represents a mobile hub of reference for this sector. The last international meeting (IDP ed.) held in Italy fills us with pride. I think there is little to add about the Next Generation Foil Academy Powered by Luna Rossa: it is a mature project that is also seen with great interest abroad. These final days of the year we concluded the season with an international trophy in Cagliari where we saw the participation of eleven nations.”

We spoke about the important role of the Technical Director, Michele Marchesini, and his high-level staff.

“The entire high-level sporting part required meticulous work to insert the right elements in the right places. Ideally it may seem like a simple mechanism to implement but in reality a mechanism of this importance always requires small adjustments to make it function as best as possible. The Technical Director, Michele Marchesini, is the fulcrum around which our top movement develops. Its high-level staff provides essential support to athletes, allowing them to grow and aim for prestigious goals. The collaboration and dedication of the entire team is fundamental to the success of our athletes. The figure of the Technical Director is crucial in shaping the development path of athletes, guiding them with competence and passion towards increasingly ambitious goals."

As regards youth sailing, the Technical Direction has for years been entrusted to Alessandra Sensini.

“The figure of Alessandra Sensini represents an icon for Italian sailing who has consolidated herself through a very long and high-level career. It is not trivial to be able to convey how much you have become an athlete by passing to the other side. Alessandra succeeded with great professionalism, consequently bringing youth sailing to the highest level. The world championships just concluded in Buzios demonstrate the virtuous path that has been undertaken by her and all her staff. Each element, as with the previous question, must be placed in the best context of her in order to best render and transfer all her knowledge."

Looking to the future, next year will see the Youth world Championships in Italy, Olympic class European Championships and certainly the Olympic mission.

“We have very high expectations for the Youth World Championships and the Olympic mission next year. We are preparing carefully, following a well-structured plan. Nothing is left to chance, and we are confident that all the work done to date will bear fruit in these very important events. The Youth World Championships represent a unique opportunity to showcase emerging talent in Italian sailing and to inspire new generations of sailors. The Paris 2024 mission, however, is the culmination of years of preparation and dedication on the part of athletes and technical staff.”

The Federal Council and Zone Presidents were cited as key figures in the implementation of initiatives.

“The Federal Council and the Zone Presidents play a crucial role in making many of our initiatives feasible. Their passion and expertise are evident in the way they make their resources available and actively support the federal machine. Without their commitment, many of our successes would not have been possible. Collaboration between different figures within the federation is a fundamental element for our progress, and the Federal Council plays a leading role in shaping the future direction of Italian sailing.”

A thought also for Affiliates?

“They represent the pride of the federal structure. Our affiliates, the real beating heart of all our initiatives and activities. From the basic activity to the great successes, it must be underlined how all this is possible thanks to the social fabric and the great passion of those who believe in sailing every day. Affiliates are the driving force of our movement, contributing significantly to the spread of sailing culture in Italy and to supporting the federation's activities."

Key figures of the Federation are also the Technical Managers.

“As far as RUs and Instructors are concerned, the work set by the Federation is certainly wide-ranging. Our Technical Panels represent the real possibility of being able to put the entire activity on land and in water. The knowledge and transmission of our sport is placed in highly professional figures who, over the years, acquire national and international experience that places them within the high-level international movement. Specifically, I come from this world having started my journey in the Federation as an instructor. I believe that compared to many years ago, there is now a well-defined path which, in the face of continuous training, recognizes the professionalism of our RUs and Instructors."

Speaking of the growth of the federation, how is the structure, offices and staff evolving?

“The structure of the federation is growing and evolving to meet future challenges. Investments in resources and new projects are bearing fruit. We want to make Italian sailing accessible to all, and this structural growth is essential to ensure that everything goes according to plan. The federation is equipping itself with a more solid and efficient structure, with the aim of better supporting athletes, coaches and sailing enthusiasts throughout the country.”