Torneo del Cerchio

The Torneo del Cerchio in Ivrea

The Torneo del Cerchio is one of the most beloved sporting events in Ivrea, in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Piedmont. For over two decades, this basketball tournament has gathered teams and fans around the circular court in the Giusiana Gardens, known to generations of locals simply as "il Tondo" (the Round). More than just a competition, it is a summer ritual that weaves together sport, friendship, and neighborhood life, attracting players of all ages every year.

"Il Tondo", a landmark court for the city

The circular basketball court in the Giusiana Gardens has been a gathering place for the Ivrea community for decades. Its unique round shape earned it the affectionate nickname "Tondo". In 2026, the court underwent a major structural renovation and artistic-cultural enhancement project, featuring a new visual identity that places the word "TONDO" at the center of the court, with a color palette inspired by the Serra gardens. The Torneo del Cerchio is the first major event to inaugurate the renovated court.

The "Quelli del Tondo" Association

The heart of the tournament is the "Quelli del Tondo" association, which has organized the event for years and oversees the care and maintenance of the court. As long-time frequenters of the space, they contributed to the renovation project by sharing their deep knowledge of the site. A network of local sports and urban culture organizations revolves around the tournament, making the "Tondo" a vibrant hub for the city's youth.

Four days of outdoor basketball

For four days, the Giusiana Gardens court transforms into a stage for sport and social interaction. Matches run from morning until evening in the informal and participatory atmosphere that defines the event. The tournament is a popular festival as much as a sporting one: an opportunity to meet outdoors, support the teams, and experience one of the most cherished traditions of the Ivrea summer together.

A gathering for the Ivrea community

The Torneo del Cerchio perfectly embodies the spirit of Ivrea and the Canavese area: a grassroots event, rooted in the territory and grown through the passion of volunteers. For the city, it is much more than a basketball tournament; it is a way to invest in the culture of movement and create healthy spaces for young people to gather, as highlighted by the municipal administration during the court's reopening.