The Opening Ceremony of the European Universities Handball Championship 2025 took place on 22 July at the Covilha Business Innovation Centre (CIEC).

The Ceremony was attended by the President of the Academic Federation of University Sports (FADU), Ricardo Nora, the Secretary of State for Sports, Pedro Dias, EUSA President, Adam Roczek, and EUSA First Vice-President Haris Pavletic.
Also present was the Dean of the University of Beira Interior (UBI), Ana Paula Duarte, while on behalf of the Organising Committee, participants were welcomed by the President of the Organising Committee, Joao Nunes.

Mr Pavletic welcomed all participants and wished all the teams and participants who came to test their skills and abilities well ahead of the start of the competition, while also thanking the Organising Committee for all their contributions.

The competition is organised by European University Sports Association (EUSA), Academic Federation of University Sports (FADU), Academic Association of the University of Beira Interior (AAUBI), Covilha City Council and University of Beira Interior, with the contribution of the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ), Turismo do Centro de Portugal, European Handball Federation and Portuguese Handball Federation.

The Championship will take place from July 22 to 28 in Covilha, Portugal. EUSA is represented by its Technical Delegate for Handball Paivi Mitrunen, and Assistant Technical Delegate Urmo Sitsi: they will make sure that the event runs smoothly and without problems.

The competition will host 12 men's teams and 12 women's teams from as many as 19 universities from 9 countries.
Expectations are high as athletes from across Europe gather to compete at the highest level of university sport, showcasing not only their athleticism but also the spirit of fair play, friendship, and cultural exchange.

The venue was alive with energy, marked by music, dance, and vibrant delegations proudly waving their flags, creating a truly international and festive atmosphere. The parade of universities drew enthusiastic cheers from the audience as each university delegation entered with pride and excitement.

The ceremony featured a captivating performance by Maria Branco, featuring a musical moment that reflected Portuguese culture, and a gymnastics performance by the Estrela de Três Pontas Association. In line with EUSA’s commitment to sustainability, organisers implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, including digital information systems, reusable water stations, and waste separation zones across the competition venues.

The organisers hope the Championship will serve not only as a competitive platform but also as a legacy for future university sport in the region, inspiring young athletes and setting a benchmark for hosting international events.

More information can be found at handball2025.eusa.eu