Fabio Antichi at BTM Italy 2026 discusses the future of sports tourism with AI

BTM Italy 2026 confirms its role as a hub of innovation and strategic vision for the future of tourism by announcing the participation of Fabio Antichi, one of the protagonists of the panel dedicated to Sports Tourism.

The appointment is scheduled for Thursday, February 27 at 11:30 AM, in the Hospitality Room, with the meeting titled “Sports Tourism: AI tools for a Smart Destination Hospitality”, focused on the evolution of tourist destinations through the use of artificial intelligence.

An expert professional in digital innovation and AI applied to tourism, Antichi deals with strategies for smart destinations, advanced hospitality, and data‑driven models, with particular attention to sports tourism and the’integration of technology, sustainability, and traveler experience.

The data related to this segment is interesting, and the photograph by ENIT illustrates a sector in strong expansion. The latest data processed by the National Agency highlights how in 2024 foreign tourists arriving in Italy for sporting events generated an economic impact of 338 million euros (+3.3% compared to ’23).

About 560 thousand international travelers chose our country for sports holidays (+4.7% compared to 2023), generating about 2 million overnight stays (+8.7% vs ’23). We are witnessing a sector that increasingly contributes to the enhancement of destinations and local economic development, with main markets such as Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Austria.

During the panel, Antichi will explore how artificial intelligence is becoming a key tool for improving the management of flows, hospitality, and the competitiveness of destinations linked to sporting events, offering operational insights and strategic visions aimed at operators, destination managers, institutions, and stakeholders in the sector.

Fabio Antichi's presence is part of the rich program of BTM Italy 2026, taking place from February 25 to 27 at the Fiera del Levante in Bari, a reference point for those building the tourism of tomorrow through innovation, networking, and new business opportunities.