The organization responsible for student competitions at the European level is EUSA (European University Sports Association), which, in cooperation with national federations, organizes and oversees European championships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the Italian city of Salerno, the European Universities Games 2026 will take place from July 18 to August 1, 2026, one of the largest student sporting events in Europe. More than 4,000 athletes and team members from around 400 universities across approximately 40 European countries are expected to attend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is a major multi-sport event held every two years under the auspices of the European University Sports Association. Unlike traditional international competitions, participants do not represent national teams but their universities, further emphasizing the academic and student-centered character of the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Games program includes 13 sports, and students from the University of Rijeka will compete in badminton. Competitions will be held at multiple venues, including university campuses and sports facilities throughout the Campania region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to the sporting aspect, the Games also have a strong social dimension. The organizers highlight that the event promotes international cooperation, cultural exchange, and connections among young people from different parts of Europe. The Games’ slogan, “Passion never ends,” symbolizes this enduring energy and unity among student-athletes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The European Universities Games represent the pinnacle of university sport on the continent, and the Salerno edition is expected to be the largest student sporting event in Europe in 2026. After Italy, the next host will be Split, where the Games will be held in 2028.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The European University Championship in combat sports will be held separately in Tirana, the capital of Albania, from September 8 to 16, 2026. This championship brings together the best university athletes from across Europe in disciplines such as judo, karate, taekwondo, and kickboxing. According to organizers, around 1,500 athletes and delegation members from more than 400 universities are expected to arrive in Tirana, making the city one of the key centers of student sport in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The competition program is divided into two phases. The first part will feature taekwondo and karate, while the second part will include judo and kickboxing. This structure aims to ensure better organization and a balanced schedule of sporting events throughout the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The University of Rijeka will be represented by Filip Vi\u0161nji\u0107 in karate and Stela Lovakovi\u0107 in judo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n