The European University Sports Association announces that the 5th European Universities Games will not be held in Belgrade, Serbia this year.

Initially scheduled to take place in 2020, the Games were postponed to the summer of 2021, yet due to the ongoing global pandemic, a decision was taken in March this year to further postpone the event to a later date.

EUSA, the Local Organising Committee, together with the Serbian government, explored the option of hosting the competition in the autumn of 2021, yet taking into account the unstable situation which might hinder the Games being organised under the traditionally cultural and social atmosphere associated with EUSA events, a decision has now been made not to have the event this year. EUSA acknowledges the decision not to have the Games in Belgrade this year is in the best interests of all concerned, keeping the safety and well-being of the participants, officials, volunteers as well as the hosting country citizens as a priority.

All parties remain fully committed to additionally explore the possibilities of having the event staged in its rightful and enjoyable manner at a later time. Discussions with both the local organisers and the Government of Serbia regarding a future date for the event are ongoing, with a decision set to be announced in due course. In the meantime, EUSA members, registered teams and individuals received detailed instructions on the refund procedure.  

EUSA keeps its dedication to the upcoming editions of the European Universities Games. Local organisers of the EUG2022 in Lodz, Poland and EUG2024 in Debrecen-Miskolc are hard at work to ensure the successful hosting of both these events, and the bidding process for the EUG2026 is open until September 30, 2021.