The ceremony celebrated the start of the biggest Shotgun World Cup of the season, bringing together 600 athletes from 80 countries and 80 Member Federations, who will compete across 708 competition starts over the coming days. Once again, Lonato has attracted a record-breaking field, surpassing last year's edition, which welcomed 550 athletes from 74 countries.
Representatives of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), the Italian Shooting Federation (FITAV), local institutions, athletes, coaches and volunteers joined the celebrations, which showcased the rich tradition and hospitality of the host region.
The evening featured a colourful parade of flags representing the participating nations, accompanied by live musical performances, including a saxophonist whose performance set the tone for the celebrations. The ceremony concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, officially marking the beginning of another exciting week of world-class competition.
Representatives of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), the Italian Shooting Federation (FITAV), local institutions, athletes, coaches and volunteers joined the celebrations, which showcased the rich tradition and hospitality of the host region.
The evening featured a colourful parade of flags representing the participating nations, accompanied by live musical performances, including a saxophonist whose performance set the tone for the celebrations. The ceremony concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, officially marking the beginning of another exciting week of world-class competition.
ISSF President Luciano Rossi welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of returning to one of the sport's most iconic venues.
"Lonato has become a true home of international shotgun shooting. Year after year, it brings together the very best athletes in the world in an atmosphere of excellence, friendship and respect. I would like to thank the Italian Shooting Federation, the Local Organising Committee and all the volunteers for their outstanding work in delivering this exceptional event. To all athletes, I wish the very best of success. May you compete with passion, integrity and the true Olympic spirit."
"Lonato has become a true home of international shotgun shooting. Year after year, it brings together the very best athletes in the world in an atmosphere of excellence, friendship and respect. I would like to thank the Italian Shooting Federation, the Local Organising Committee and all the volunteers for their outstanding work in delivering this exceptional event. To all athletes, I wish the very best of success. May you compete with passion, integrity and the true Olympic spirit."
Competition is now underway, with medals to be decided across the Skeet and Trap disciplines throughout the event. The Opening Ceremony officially launched ten days of elite international competition as athletes continue their journey towards the ISSF World Championships Doha 2026 and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The first finals in Lonato will take place on 7 July, while medal events will continue on 11 and 12 July, bringing together many of the world's leading shotgun shooters in one of the sport's most prestigious venues.
The first finals in Lonato will take place on 7 July, while medal events will continue on 11 and 12 July, bringing together many of the world's leading shotgun shooters in one of the sport's most prestigious venues.