The Opening Ceremony of the European Universities Winter Sports Championships 2025 took place on Monday, 15th of December in the city of Val di Zoldo at Rodolfo Balestra Square. 

Set against the backdrop of the Dolomites, the ceremony created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all participants.

The Opening Ceremony warmly welcomed authorities, guests, students, volunteers, officials, referees, and spectators who will animate Val di Zoldo over the coming days of sport, social interaction, and celebration.

The second European Universities Winter Sports Championships brings together 57 universities and more than 300 participants from 16 countries. A key moment of the ceremony was the Parade of Flags of the participating nations, followed by an introduction of the athletes and universities taking part in the competition.

On behalf of the Organising Committee, the participants were welcomed by Giorgio Stefano Bertinetti, Regional Delegate of the Italian University Sport Federation, as well as a warm, welcoming speech from Val di Zoldo's Mayor, Camillo de Pellegrin. 

Haris Pavletic, President of the European University Sports Association, addressed the audience, welcoming all participants, wishing the teams success as they prepared to showcase their skills and abilities, and expressing his sincere appreciation to the Organising Committee for their dedication and efforts.

The European Universities Winter Sports Championships is organised by FederCUSI – the Italian University Sports Federation – in collaboration with CUS Venezia, the sports division of Ca’ Foscari University and IUAV University of Venice, with the support of Val di Zoldo Ski Area, the Veneto Region, the Province of Belluno, and the Italian Ministry for Sport and Youth.

Both the university and the city have a strong tradition of hosting university-level sporting events, having previously organised the European Universities Winter Sports Championship 2023, which highlights their experience and dedication to organising university-level competitions. The event also benefits from strong support from the local municipality, civic institutions, and sports associations.

Supporting the event from the the EUSA side are President Haris Pavletic, Secretary General Matjaz Pecovnik, Vice President Bruno Baracossa, Treasurer Francis Cirianni, and a dedicated team from the EUSA office. EUSA Technical Delegates Michele Ventura (Alpine Skiing), Anton Fichtinger (Snow Volleyball), and Iztok Kvas (Snowboarding) are on site to oversee the competitions and ensure they proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Excitement filled the air as athletes from across Europe gathered to compete in their winter sports, showcasing not only their talent but also the values of fair play, friendship, and cross-cultural exchange.

The venue came alive with music, dance, and the vibrant presence of delegations proudly carrying their national flags, creating a festive and international atmosphere. 

As the European Universities Winter Sports Championships Val di Zoldo 2025 unfolds, the slopes and arenas come alive with thrilling competition, skillful performances, and the spirit of winter sports. Beyond the races and matches, the event celebrates the joy of winter sports, the dedication of the athletes, and the shared passion that unites university communities across Europe.

Before the Opening Ceremony was held, the General Technical Meetings for all three sports: alpine skiing, snowboarding, and snowvolleyball, took place, with participants discussing schedules, regulations, and logistical arrangements.

Technical Delegates from the Organizing Committee are also on site, assisting with logistics and regulations: Marta De Manincor (Alpine Ski), Paolo Carminati (Snowboard), and Stefano Sciascia (Snowvolleyball).

For more information, please see https://wintersports2025.eusa.eu/