Salerno 2026: European Universities Games

Campania becomes the capital of university sports

Salerno, August 5, 2025 – Salerno is preparing to become the beating heart of European university sports and beyond. During this morning’s press conference, hosted at the University of Salerno, the 8th edition of the European Universities Games (EUG 2026) was officially presented. The event is scheduled to take place from July 18 to August 1, 2026.

The Games will bring over 4,500 athletes and staff from 400 universities across 40 European countries to Campania, transforming Salerno into an international stage and a hub of sport, friendship, and cooperation among peoples.

The EUG 2026 will be much more than a sports competition. Integration, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue will be the guiding principles of the event. The chosen slogan, “Passion never ends – La passione non finisce mai,” perfectly captures the spirit of the Games.

The official logo, inspired by Piazza della Libertà and ideally linked to Piazza del Sapere, is a multicolored flower symbolizing diversity, growth, and openness to the world, with a visual nod to the semicircle of the European Parliament.

EUG 2026 in numbers:

• 4,500 participants (athletes and technical staff)
• 400 universities
• 40 countries represented
• 800 competing teams
• 13 sports disciplines
• 15 competition venues across Salerno and its province, from the Fisciano Campus to the beaches of Santa Teresa, from Arechi Stadium to PalaUnisa, and including Piazza della Libertà and Piazza del Sapere for side events

Sports disciplines include: Basketball (including 3×3), Football, Futsal, Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, Padel, Rugby 7s, Handball, Beach Handball, Badminton, Tennis, Table Tennis.

Voices from the presentation:

“The Games are not just a sports challenge,” said Professor Vincenzo Loia, Rector of the University of Salerno. “They are a systemic project that unites students and citizens, involving the communities around the University, the institutions, and the University Sports Center (CUS). We are used to facing challenges with a sense of responsibility that allows us to overcome the difficulties inherent in events of this scale. It’s not just an academic mission—sport enters everyone’s life. It’s a journey of growth for our youth. Everything we’ve done so far has allowed us to close this beautiful and demanding experience with a smile. A great springboard for what lies ahead.”

“We are certainly proud to host this major international sporting event,” emphasized Hon. Fulvio Bonavitacola, Vice President of the Campania Region. “The 2019 Universiade put Naples and Campania on the global map, and we left an important mark. The 2026 European Universities Games in Salerno, along with the 2027 America’s Cup, will place our region at the center of the international spotlight.”

“EUG 2026 is not only a major sporting event but also a cultural and social one,” echoed Adam Roczek, President of EUSA (European University Sports Association). “The biggest European multi-sport event of 2026, the University Games will bring significant tourism and visibility benefits to the city and the entire region. I want to stress that next year, students will come from all over Europe and beyond. But more importantly, sport is more than competition. From volunteers to cleaning staff, we all contribute to building a better world—because sport is, above all, about belonging.”

In closing, Lawyer Lorenzo Lentini, President of CUS Salerno, highlighted:

“University sport, with its values of loyalty and respect, is the universal language that unites diverse cultures. The Games will offer young Europeans not just the thrill of competition but, above all, an opportunity for meeting, dialogue, and intercultural growth, strengthening the sense of community and friendship among nations. Our journey toward EUG 2026 has begun. We are now more aware of what we do well and the challenges we need to face with clarity and determination. We have a strong foundation to build upon. These events also leave a significant legacy for the region, paving the way for future development.

At the moment, we have three indoor arenas, five pilotis gyms, an international swimming pool, two additional covered courts, a tennis court, and we are working with the University on acquiring the stadium. We also have 15,000 square meters near the arenas. Starting September 1st, we will begin a project that includes the creation of eight padel courts—and much more that we’re currently envisioning.”

For more information and updates:

Official website: https://eug2026.eu/
Press conference photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1GDyxhp-06oMYwzkq7WrFAVF3t5mQPETu
Social media: @eug2026