FISB Central-South Qualifying Round — Italian Flag-Throwing Championship

Carovigno, capital of the flag

Over the weekend of May 30 and 31, 2026, the historic center of Carovigno, in the heart of the Brindisi province, transformed into a grand open-air stage for the Central-South Qualifying Round of the Italian Flag-Throwing Championship. The event, which serves as a qualifier for the national stage of the Italian Flag-Throwers Federation (FISB), brought dozens of costumed athletes, including flag-throwers and musicians, to Piazza della Libertà for two days of competition, vibrant colors, and rhythmic drumming.

A highlight of the 2026 federal calendar

The regional qualifying round format is one of the main innovations introduced by the FISB for the 2026 competitive season: the circuit includes a North-West round and a Central-South round, which select the groups admitted to the National Championship. The Federation entrusted the organization of the southern stage to the 'Nzegna Cultural Board, under the patronage of the Municipality of Carovigno. This was no coincidence: the Apulian town is among the founding members of the Federation, which was born in San Marino in 1966, and boasts one of the most historic flag-throwing groups in Italy, the Gruppo Sbandieratori e Battitori 'Nzegna.

Competitions in Piazza della Libertà

For the occasion, the square was equipped with grandstands, lighting systems, and technical areas dedicated to the performances. Eleven groups from the Marche, Lazio, Abruzzo, Campania, and Sicily regions vied for a spot in the national stage across various categories: small and large teams, individual and traditional pairs, and musicians. The Gruppo Battitori 'Nzegna of Carovigno emerged victorious in the round before their home crowd, while delegations such as the Borgo San Panfilo of Sulmona left their mark with podium finishes.

The "Cristian Casula" Federal Trophy

Sunday afternoon added another appointment to the federal calendar: the 17th "Cristian Casula" Federal Trophy, a memorial dedicated to a young flag-thrower and a deeply felt community moment for the entire movement. Amidst the explosion of flags launched into the air and the rolling of drums, the two-day event combined sports competition, spectacle, and remembrance.

A look at the territory

By hosting the Central-South round, Carovigno confirmed its role in the landscape of Puglia's ancient flag games, attracting enthusiasts and curious onlookers to the town's main square. For visitors, the event was also an opportunity to discover the Brindisi village, its castle, and the 'Nzegna tradition, which is deeply rooted in the local community.