FSB Forum Italy is the new and only event in Italy dedicated to sports facilities and public spaces, taking place on 11–12 November 2026 at the Bergamo Exhibition Centre. The event reflects a clear transformation currently shaping the sector: sports facility development is undergoing a profound evolution, and designing a stadium or sports venue today means addressing sustainability, innovation, inclusion, and urban regeneration. More than a traditional trade fair, FSB Forum Italy is conceived as a platform that brings together all stakeholders across the industry. Its goal is to foster dialogue on the latest market trends while creating tangible opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business development. It is precisely this approach that is generating strong interest across the market: just a few months before the event opens, more than 200 exhibitors from 15 countries have already confirmed their participation, including many of the leading players in the sports facilities industry. This achievement highlights the sector’s need for a dedicated platform where companies, designers, public authorities, facility operators, and industry professionals can come together to exchange ideas, discuss emerging challenges and opportunities, and help shape the future of sports facilities.
The exhibition area is spread across two halls and will be complemented by a comprehensive conference programme featuring plenary sessions and thematic workshops focused on the key areas of sports facilities and public spaces. The programme will take an integrated approach to topics including the design, construction, renovation of sports facilities, technological and operational innovation, environmental sustainability, sports lighting and the quality of playing surfaces. It will also address governance, education, and professional development within the sector. In addition, special attention will be given to urban regeneration initiatives and to the role of sport as a driver of social cohesion and local development.
The event is supported by AIS – Associazione Impianti Sportivi and has received significant institutional recognition, as demonstrated by the more than 80 official patronages already secured, including that of ANCI Lombardia. This broad institutional support reflects the growing importance of sports facilities development for local authorities and its central role in the planning of public investment strategies.
Among the highlights of the first edition is the FSB Forum Italy Sport&Play Award, a new award dedicated to excellence in sports facilities. The award will officially become part of the City’Scape Award 2026, the international prize organised by PAYSAGE in collaboration with the CNAPPC – Consiglio Nazionale degli Architetti, Pianificatori, Paesaggisti e Conservatori.
The FSB Forum Italy Sport&Play Award recognises outstanding architectural projects for sport, play, and leisure. Eligible entries include major stadiums and sports arenas, multi-purpose and specialist indoor sports facilities, outdoor sports and play areas, playgrounds, fitness zones, as well as swimming pools, spas, wellness centres and thermal facilities.
With a significant number of exhibitors already confirmed, a rich programme of events and a format designed to foster networking, training, and business, FSB Forum Italy aims to become the new benchmark event for everyone involved in designing, building, and managing the sports facilities of the future, offering a platform for discussion on the best solutions and innovations that are reshaping the relationship between sport, cities and communities.
