European Universities Games Granada 2030
Following the conclusion of the bidding process and the official presentation of candidatures, Granada, Spain, has been awarded the honour of hosting the 2030 EUSA European Universities Games. The official announcement was made during the Attribution Ceremony held at the Auditorium of the University of Aveiro, Portugal, on Saturday, April 20, 2024.
Representing the Bidding Committee of Granada 2028 Candidate City were notable individuals including Mr. Fernando Molinero Revert, General Director of the Spanish Sports Council; Ms. Maria Francisca Carazo Villalonga, Mayor of Granada; Prof. Pedro Mercado Pacheco, Rector of the University of Granada; Ms. Ana Isabel Agudo Martinez, Councilor of the City Hall of Granada; and Mr. Jordi Joan Mercade Torras, Director of the Sports Centre of the University of Granada.
Alongside them, Mr. Adam Roczek, President, and Mr. Matjaz Pecovnik, Secretary General, represented EUSA. The event also saw the presence of esteemed local and university authorities, members of the EUSA Executive Committee, as well as distinguished guests and students.
This marks a significant milestone for Granada, as it will be the first time the city hosts such a prestigious event. Notably, the hosting of the Games in 2030 coincides with Granada's 500th anniversary, adding an extra layer of significance to the occasion. For Spain, this opportunity represents the second time hosting the Games, following the inaugural edition held in Cordoba in 2012.
The official signing of the Attribution Agreements saw Ms. Carazo Villalonga and Prof. Mercado Pacheco sign the official documents on behalf of their Bidding Committee.
Before the final decision was made, representatives from the EUSA conducted comprehensive visits to Granada to assess its suitability as a host city.
The EUSA Technical Commission visited Granada from March 11-13, 2024, to evaluate the city's readiness. Led by Mr. Miha Zvan and Ms. Eszter Gulyas, the Commission inspected various venues, including the Fuentenueva Campus, which offers a range of sports facilities. The visit also included technical meetings with key stakeholders to discuss logistical matters and additional sports venues.
Following this, from March 20-22, 2024, the Spanish city welcomed the European Universities Games 2028 Evaluation Commission.
Both visits reinforced Granada's status as a strong candidate, well-prepared to host the 10th edition of the European Universities Games in 2030, coinciding with its significant anniversary celebration.