The Italian national speed skating team, often regarded as one of the strongest in the world, recently celebrated gold medals in various competitions, yet they are hindered by the stark reality of inadequate training facilities. With only two outdoor training tracks available in the entire country, both of which are unusable during winter, athletes find themselves constantly on the move, often spending over 200 days a year away from home to train. This situation starkly contrasts with their achievements and highlights a significant issue in the nation's support for winter sports.

Matteo Anesi, a former Olympic champion and current coach, emphasizes the hard work and dedication of his athletes, who have been refining their skills since 2015. Despite the absence of world-class facilities, the team has managed to achieve remarkable success, securing multiple medals, including trio golds for standout Francesca Lollobrigida. Anesi insists that the focus should be on the rigorous work ethic of these athletes rather than merely their natural talent, noting that serious training conditions and a structured approach are vital to preventing injuries and enhancing performance.

The plight of the athletes—a winning team without a proper home—is a call to action for Italian sports authorities. The stark image of being champions yet wandering gypsies on ice reflects broader issues in funding and infrastructure for winter sports in Italy. As the team garners international acclaim, the need for investment in proper training environments becomes increasingly urgent, not only to support current athletes but also to nurture future talent.