Le azzurre vanno inizialmente sotto poi recuperano con una straordinaria frazione di Arianna Errigo
How Italy Overturned the United States in the World Final
In the final against the United States, the Italian quartet of Arianna Errigo, Martina Favaretto, Anna Cristino, and Martina Batini trailed for nearly half the match. However, 38-year-old captain Arianna Errigo sparked a decisive comeback by outscoring Lauren Scruggs 12-5 in her turn, shifting the score to 30-26 in Italy’s favor.
Following Errigo’s performance, the Italian squad dominated the remaining three rounds by a margin of 15-3. “We simply demonstrated that we are the strongest, those capable of overcoming even the difficult moments that never fail in every match,” Errigo said.
Semifinal Dominance Over Japan and Earlier Rounds
Before reaching the final, the Italian team defeated Japan in the semifinal following earlier victories against Israel (45-18) and Hungary (45-25). Against Japan, Anna Cristino won the opening bout 5-4 against Tsuji, while Martina Batini secured an 8-1 victory over Kikuchi to extend the lead to 15-5 after the first rotation. In the quarterfinal against Hungary, the team overcame an early 12-15 deficit after first-round setbacks by Cristino and Errigo before sealing a 30-22 lead and an eventual 45-25 win.
The gold medal marks the 99th iridata medal for Italy in foil fencing, contributing to a total of 19 team world titles and 18 individual titles in the weapon.
Did you know?
The Italian women’s foil team finished the 2026 season completely undefeated, claiming gold at both the European Championships and the World Championships, alongside five World Cup circuit titles.
Men’s Sabre Team Finishes Eighth Amid Injuries
In contrast to the women’s foil success, the Italian men’s sabre team finished in eighth place at the World Championships. Entering the tournament as defending champions from Tbilisi, the squad competed without injured veteran Luca Curatoli. After defeating Australia 45-26 and Germany 45-36, the team fell 36-45 to Romania in the quarterfinals, led by Covaliu.
During the placement rounds, Italy lost 45-40 to Russia. Their final placement match against China was cut short when Neri and Gallo suffered ankle and muscular injuries respectively, leaving the team below the minimum required number of athletes to continue. Former coach Stefano Cerioni noted regarding major tournaments that athletes “do not go to collect medals, but to conquer them with bouts.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the women’s foil team gold medal at the World Championships?
Italy won the gold medal by defeating the United States 45-29 in the final, with a team comprising Arianna Errigo, Martina Favaretto, Anna Cristino, and Martina Batini.
What was the final score of the Italy vs. USA women’s foil final?
Italy defeated the United States 45-29, erasing a five-touch deficit in the middle rounds.
How did the Italian men’s sabre team perform?
The men’s sabre team finished eighth, hampered by injuries to key athletes including Luca Curatoli, Neri, and Gallo.
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