EUC Combat Sports 2026 Evaluation visit in Tirana
Tirana, Albania's capital, is set to host the European Universities Combat Championships in 2026, pending final approval.
Building on the success of the 2023 European Universities Football Championship, the city has proven its ability to deliver high-quality university sports events, supported by modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
On May 19, 2025, EUSA Director of Sports Events Liam Smith and Sports Manager Miha Zvan conducted working meetings and initial evaluation site visits in preparation for the conditionally attributed event.
During their visit, they met with colleagues from the Albanian University Sports Federation, led by the President, Besnik Veliu, and met with members of the Local Organising Committee (OC) to align on planning and logistics.
Their visit included inspections of key accommodation facilities, such as the Qyteti Studenti dormitories, and several main sports venues: Olympic Park “Fehti Borova,” Sport Palace “Farie Hoti,” Sport Palace “Asllan Rusi,” and Sport Palace “Farka Volley.”
They also had the pleasure of meeting with Endrit Hoxha, Deputy Minister of Sport in Albania, to discuss the importance of this international multisport event.
To discuss the sport-related aspects, a meeting was held with Labo Capo, Secretary General of the Albanian Judo Federation; Rigens Kercuku, Secretary General of the Albanian Karate Federation; Leo Kapri, Albanian Taekwondo Federation Acting President; and Julian Caca, Albanian Kickboxing Federation Representative.
EUSA extends its gratitude to the Albanian Federation of University Sport for their efforts. Further technical inspections are scheduled for later this year.