The first day of the historic Battle of the Oranges in Ivrea, Sunday 15 February 2026, ended with 138 injured people, of which 17 were transported to hospital. Nobody is in serious condition, but many suffered eye injuries or falls during the party. The figure, although better than the 174 injured on the first day of the previous edition, remains significant and testifies to the intrinsic danger of the event.
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The organisers, while underlining the record participation – 20 thousand tickets sold and around 40 thousand people in the city with many foreign visitors – recall how safety was a priority, with Red Cross and Ivrea Soccorso teams distributed throughout the area and constant health coordination through the 118 operations room.
Oranges: waste or resource?
Like every year, the Battle of Oranges raises controversy over possible food waste. However, it should be noted that the over 10 thousand quintals of citrus fruits used are not intended for human consumption: they come from Calabria and Sicily and would otherwise be destined for pulping.
Furthermore, for some years now, the oranges from the Battle of Ivrea have had a second life: they are recovered to transform them into natural fertilizer or converted into renewable energy and biomethane, reducing the environmental impact of the event. In this sense, the Ivrea Carnival becomes an example of a circular economy, which transforms potential waste into useful resources.
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The exploitation of horses
Furthermore, we cannot forget another sore point that is close to the hearts of animal rights associations: the exploitation of horses. During the battle, in fact, dozens of horses are used, forced to pull the carts amidst the chaos of shouting and throwing oranges. Although the regulation prohibits hitting animals, horses should not find themselves in these very dangerous situations and should not be exploited in any way.
Too many injured
Despite the efficient organization, the number of injured remains a critical point. Men, women and children injured during the Battle remember how, even if oranges are not edible, the practice of throwing them involves real risks. The tradition is fascinating, but protecting the health of the participants should always come first. The Ivrea Carnival remains an extraordinary historical celebration, between history, entertainment and tradition, but it invites us to reflect on safety and sustainability: having fun must never mean risking your own safety.
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