A total of 124 competition officials are working at the Rieti 2026 European Athletics U18 Championships. This team of professionals, made up of Italian officials, international technical officials and European Athletics delegates, plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and fair running of the continental event. Behind every start, jump and throw is a meticulous organisation that guarantees each competition is conducted in full compliance with the rules and the timetable.
"Our day," explains Federico Picchi, National Chief Official of the Italian Officials' Group, "starts at 7 a.m. with the usual inspection of the stadium. We carry out all the necessary checks together with the host broadcaster and the international technical officials so that everything is ready before competition begins. We usually finish around 11 p.m., after the debriefing sessions and anti-doping procedures. Our commitment goes well beyond competition hours”.
Despite the high temperatures experienced throughout the championships, the event has run smoothly.
"We have always kept to the schedule, thanks to excellent teamwork. A real spirit of cooperation has developed among volunteers, technical staff and organisers, allowing us to provide the best possible conditions for the athletes”.
Picchi also highlighted the attention paid to the well-being of the officials, helped in part by nature itself.
"That large tree behind the 100 metres start has been incredibly useful," he says. "It gives both officials and athletes some much-needed shade before the races begin. Although its canopy is impressive," he smiles, "it's still not quite big enough for all the shot put officials and athletes”.
One of the most positive aspects of Rieti 2026 has been the atmosphere within the entire officials' team.
"There is a great spirit of collaboration and professionalism among the national officials, international technical officials and the local team. It reflects the excellent preparation carried out at regional level. Even those officiating at their first international championship have settled in perfectly. This has been possible thanks to the work of the GGG Lazio and the officials from Rieti, whose experience at Roma 2024, together with that of many national officials, proved invaluable. Their knowledge of major event organisation and of the unique characteristics of the Guidobaldi Stadium has been fundamental in dealing quickly and effectively with every operational challenge”.