The sporting programme at the European Universities Games 2026 continues to grow, with Beach Volleyball and Rugby 7s officially getting underway.

While two new disciplines made their debut, the competitions in Badminton, Tennis and Handball entered their second day. The Football tournament continued across the venues, with the group stage now behind us and the knockout stage bracket defined.

Beach Volleyball made its debut on the brand-new courts at the UNISA Campus Baronissi, welcoming 24 men's teams and 24 women's teams to the competition.

The tournament opened with the pool play phase, where teams compete in eight pools of three in a single round-robin format. The opening matches immediately showcased the speed, athleticism and teamwork that define beach volleyball, with players enjoying the lively atmosphere surrounding the venue.

The Rugby 7s tournament also kicked off at Stadio Dirceu in Eboli, adding another fast-paced and dynamic sport to the EUG 2026 programme.

A total of eight men's teams and six women's teams began their campaigns, with the opening matches offering an exciting display of pace, skill and physicality. Known for its continuous action and quick transitions, Rugby 7s promises several days of entertaining competition as teams battle for a place on the podium.

The Badminton courts continue to deliver fast-paced rallies and intense shuttle exchanges, with university teams competing for every point. As the tournament progresses through the knockout rounds, precision, agility and tactical play are proving decisive in the race for medals.

Football action continues at full pace across the EUG 2026, with every fixture bringing high intensity and fierce competition. Teams are battling for crucial points and knockout qualification, combining disciplined defending with clinical finishing as the tournament moves closer to its decisive stages.

Handball competition remains in full swing, with powerful attacks, quick transitions and solid defensive performances shaping the tournament. Every possession counts as teams fight for a place in the next round and keep their medal ambitions alive.

Tennis players continue their pursuit of success on the courts, producing thrilling rallies, powerful serves and determined baseline battles. With each round raising the stakes, athletes are aiming to secure their place in the latter stages of the competition and stay in contention for the podium.

Off the courts, preparations continued for the start of the 3x3 Basketball tournament with the General Technical Meeting bringing together representatives of the participating universities, EUSA representatives and members of the Local Organising Committee.

The meeting was opened by CTC Chair Matac Liviu Marian, who welcomed the 24 men's teams and 20 women's teams participating in the tournament. EUSA Technical Delegate Jeanine Tjin-A-Sioe and EUSA Assistant Technical Delegate Martin Ho Suie Sang presented the competition regulations and technical procedures ahead of the tournament. With the official draw and competition schedule confirmed, the path of each team in pursuit of the European Universities Games titles is now defined.

As more sports join the programme and ongoing tournaments gather momentum, the European Universities Games 2026 continue to showcase the diversity, excellence and spirit of university sport.

For more information and live results of the ongoing competition, please see: www.results.eusa.eu