The European Universities Games 2026 are officially opened!

The European Universities Games 2026 were officially opened on July 18 with a spectacular Opening Ceremony at Piazza della Liberta in Salerno, bringing together thousands of student-athletes, officials, volunteers and guests from across Europe for an evening celebrating sport, culture and unity. The two-hour ceremony marked the official beginning of two weeks of competition and international friendship.

A festive atmosphere spread throughout the venue as national delegations proudly entered the square, greeted by enthusiastic applause, music, artistic performances and a sea of flags representing universities from across the continent. The ceremony reflected the values of unity, inclusion and fair play, while celebrating the diversity that makes the European Universities Games a unique gathering of young people from different cultures and backgrounds.

The ceremony brought together representatives of the highest national, regional, and local authorities, the host university and organising partners, EUSA and FISU representatives, distinguished guests, officials, student-athletes, and the citizens of Salerno.

The atmosphere peaked as the Parade of Universities, the most iconic tradition of every multi-sport event, took centre stage. Entering the square by country, delegations from almost 200 universities from 31 countries across Europe were warmly welcomed by spectators as each nation and university was introduced, before the host nation, Italy, concluded the parade in a celebratory climax.

Following the parade, the ceremony showcased the host region through a video dedicated to Salerno and Campania, before the Italian National Anthem, performed by the Conservatorio di musica Giuseppe Martucci Salerno, accompanied the raising of the Italian flag. 

A specially designed artistic performance, combining music, lighting, choreography and visual effects inspired by the sea, celebrated the cultural identity of the host city and set the stage for the official protocol of the evening.

The formal ceremony featured addresses by representatives of the Organising Committee, including Virgilio D'Antonio, Rector of the University of Salerno, expressing: "A university is not only a place where knowledge is transmitted, but a community where people learn to choose cooperation over division. The greatest prize of these Games will not be won on a podium, but in the friendships you will build."

Lorenzo Lentini, President of CUS Salerno, shared: "What began as a dream of bringing students to Salerno has become a reality. As you compete, carry with you a message of friendship between nations, knowing that sport has the power to unite us beyond every border."

Vincenzo De Luca, Mayor of Salerno, welcomed all the participants, sharing: "May these Games be remembered not only for sporting excellence, but for friendship and respect. Salerno is a city of tolerance and peace, a crossroads of European cultures, and welcomes all the participants with a message against racism, violence, and division."

Haris Pavletic, President of the European University Sports Association (EUSA), expressed: "Six years ago, this event was only a dream. Today, it is a reality made possible by the dedication of countless people. Dear athletes, over the coming weeks you will face great battles on the field, but there is something even more important than winning: respecting one another and building friendships that will stay with you for the rest of your lives."

The official opening of the Games followed as the EUSA President invited the highest Italian authority, the President of Campania Region, Roberto Fico to address the participants and to declare the European Universities Games Salerno 2026 officially open. Mr Fico underlined: "The European Universities Games are special because they bring together universities and sport. The best results come when we work together, support one another, and move forward as one. These will be unforgettable days of sport, competition, and friendship."

The ceremony then continued with the traditional Athletes' Oath, Debora Salpieto, student of the University of Salerno, and Referees' Oath, Luka Kovac Levantin, Futsal referee from Croatia, reaffirming the values of fair play, respect and sportsmanship that define university sport.

With the raising of the EUSA flag concluding the official protocol, the Opening Ceremony officially launched the European Universities Games 2026, welcoming Europe's student-athletes to Salerno for two weeks of competition, friendship and unforgettable experiences.

The Opening Ceremony concluded with a musical performance by Les Votives, who put the entire audience on their feet and made everyone sing and dance, for a great conclusion of the event.

Before the Opening Ceremony, EUSA representatives, NUSAs, VIPs, guests and other officials were welcomed at a magnificent reception organised by the Local Organising Committee, at the Villa Comunale in the city of Salerno.

With the official protocol completed and the Games declared open, Salerno now takes centre stage as Europe's student-athletes begin their pursuit of sporting success and shared experiences.