"The challenge launched by Roma 2009 is that of creating a grand event of the 13th edition of the FINA World Championships which could bequeath the territory with a heritage of development. When we talk about heritage, we refer to the patrimony of facilities and infrastructures used for the competitions, and ready, after the Championships, to offer new services and spaces for sports. Moreover, we also refer to the patrimony of values, knowledge and expertise which such an important event as the 13th FINA World Championships generates and proliferates all over the territory. We hope that Roma 2009 will constitute an unforgettable moment of celebration of the aquatic disciplines and an important occasion of encounter of diverse cultures represented by more than 2500 athletes from 170 countries. We are aware of the complexity of the task ahead and are conscious of the significance of our goal, that is to create an utterly unique and astounding edition of the FINA World Championships."


Giovanni Malagò
President of Roma 2009 Organising Committee