Overview

• Italy clinched a place in the 2026 European Handball Championship after a 24:28 loss to Serbia in their final qualifying match.
• This marks Italy's first European Championship qualification since 1998 and only their second in history.
• Bob Hanning, in his debut national coaching role, has led the team through a transformative campaign following his appointment earlier this year.
• Mikael Helmersson stood out in the Serbia match, scoring seven goals to help secure Italy's qualification as one of the top four third-placed teams.
• The 2026 European Championship will take place from January 15 to February 1 in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, showcasing the growing prominence of handball across Europe.