40th Coppa degli Assi: the Army takes center stage in the heart of Palermo

From October 2 to 5, 2025, Palermo hosts the 40th edition of the Coppa degli Assi, the prestigious international show jumping competition returning to the “La Favorita” obstacle course, in a version that combines sport, entertainment, and public engagement.
In this setting, the Italian Army will be present with a series of initiatives aimed at showcasing its founding principles — Technology, Values, and Training — and engaging in dialogue with citizens and visitors.

“Villa Esercito” in the historic center: technology, simulations, and vehicles on display

The event will begin on Thursday, October 2. At 11:00 AM, at the “La Favorita” obstacle course, during the opening ceremony of the “Coppa degli Assi” Equestrian Trophy, the Band of the Mechanized Brigade “Aosta” will perform.
The “Aosta” Brigade, one of the Army's historic units — founded in the seventeenth century and still operational — will contribute musically to the event, symbolically aligning with the equestrian world through its traditions and institutional representation.

Also on Thursday, October 2, at 5:00 PM, in Piazza Ruggero Settimo, the Army Village — also known as “Villa Esercito” — will be inaugurated and open to the public, remaining active until Sunday.

The village, with free entry and hours from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, is designed as a true military citadel in the city center, offering interactive experiences and exhibition spaces for both adults and children.

Main attractions include:

• An artificial rock wall for engaging in active climbing activities.
• A military fitness course, to test agility, strength, and endurance.
• A flight simulator, to experience the thrill of piloting in a protected environment.
• A static display of vehicles and materials used by the Army, ranging from vehicles and technologies to the Mangusta helicopter displayed in the square.
• A mobile CBRN laboratory, capable of illustrating the Army's capabilities in managing chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear scenarios.
• A robotic quadruped Q-UGV, an example of advanced autonomous technology;
• Targeting systems (anti-drone weapons) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (drones), confirming the focus on modern capabilities and emerging domains.

This setup will offer not only a moment of institutional exhibition but also the concrete opportunity to “get hands-on” with military technologies that today contribute to national security and support operations.

Music and Entertainment

The Army's presence will not be limited to the Village spaces. On Saturday, October 4, at 7:30 PM, at the Teatro Massimo, a grand concert by the Army Band will take place, with the participation of the Chief of Staff of the Army, General of the Army Corps Carmine Masiello. The event will support the “Pink Ambassador” project of the Umberto Veronesi Foundation, a moment of social commitment combined with art and music.

On Sunday, October 5, at 4:00 PM, at the “La Favorita” obstacle course, the official closing of the event is scheduled. Here, the public can witness the traditional Equestrian Carousel performed by the “Lancieri di Montebello” Regiment (8th), accompanied by the Band of the Mechanized Brigade “Aosta” and the historical section of the “Horse Artillery” Regiment. A spectacular closing that combines sport, military ceremonial, and historical continuity.

Sport, tradition, and public engagement: a unique opportunity

The Army's presence within the Coppa degli Assi offers a different perspective on an already rich event: not just sport and competition, but culture, technology, and direct contact with the public. The equestrian competition holds historical significance: started in 1976, it is one of the longest-running and most prestigious in Italy, second only to “Piazza di Siena” in continuity and fame.

The Army's strategy — promoting the three pillars “Technology, Values, Training” — translates into a tangible program aimed at the public, young people, enthusiasts, and even the simply curious. Showcasing its operational capabilities, demonstrating the contribution that the Armed Forces offer to society today, and stimulating dialogue with citizens are objectives that find space in initiatives like this.

In summary, the 40th Coppa degli Assi will not only be a great equestrian event but will also become an opportunity to discover the modern face of the Army, between art, innovation, and civic engagement. Palermo residents and visitors will experience four days in which the city center transforms into a stage of skills, entertainment, and participation.