Across the challenges cities will face in the coming years there is a common thread: the push toward smarter, more sustainable urban life. The Smart City Congress explored how to turn these challenges into concrete progress. The blue economy already plays a pivotal role and will grow even further in the near future. Barcelona has long prioritized industry and celebration alike, and the Sailing America’s Cup is set to catalyze momentum from this energy. This Tuesday, public and private leaders gathered to share plans for success at the three-day congress held at Fira de Barcelona, laying out a roadmap for the next phase of the city’s development.
Among the most vocal advocates for transforming the Catalan capital into a global hub for the blue economy was Anna Majo, a manager of innovation and a key figure in Blue Economy Barcelona Active. She emphasized the need to bring together every voice in the process—from sustainability experts to companies, from training programs to international projections such as oceans congresses. Her roundtable, hosted near Port Vell, featured Port Vell’s chief, David Pino, Port Olímpic’s director Olga Cerezo, America’s Cup Events’ director Leslie Ryan, and Ignasi Armengol, director of the Barcelona Capital Nàutica Foundation. The exchange highlighted a shared belief: coordinated effort yields lasting impact.
Legacy of the competition
Armengol focused on a central argument for the foundation: the long-term legacy the Copa América will leave for the city. He pointed to a horizon that covers 2024 and extends through the next five years, underscoring that plans must evolve as needs shift. A critical part of this strategy involved upgrading key venues—the Port Olímpic and Port Vell—to ensure smooth operations for the event and the broader urban agenda, a task led by Pino and his team. The work not only supports the race but also strengthens Barcelona’s coastal identity and future ambitions in travel, sport, and innovation.
“Timeliness was demanding,” admitted a Port of Barcelona official, yet the sense of achievement remains clear. The improved infrastructure will stay as a lasting asset for the city, with investments amounting to 120 million euros to accelerate public-private works at Port Vell. These improvements include enhanced arrivals for vessels and the integration of new public spaces, such as the recently opened promenade along the new Dalgakıran quay, heralding a more vibrant waterfront experience for residents and visitors alike.
The tone of the conversation remained optimistic, with Leslie Ryan noting that ACE did an outstanding job organizing the Copa América’s 37th edition. The dialogue underscored shared values—sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility—that connect Barcelona with the event’s broader goals and with a growing community of partners who see blue economy initiatives as central to urban vitality. This alignment signals not just a successful festival or race but a durable framework for future collaborations across sectors and geographies. [citation: ACE, Port Vell, Barcelona Capital Nàutica Foundation]