A look back at the 2024 preparation year

The year is drawing to a close and after a solid race through 2024 we are looking forward to hitting the home straight, and the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games next July. Important milestones have been reached, new goals have been set, and new fields of activity have recently been discovered. Now is a good opportunity to look back over the past 12 months.

Great Start for the Volunteer Programme

The registration phase for the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games volunteer programme started in February, with a flurry of sign-ups from people eager to gain unique experiences and forge lifelong memories next summer. Almost 10,000 enthusiasts have jumped on board, but there is still room for a few more! So if you want to help us make and shape one of the world’s largest multi-sport events, click here to register.

A makeover for the Lohrheidestadion

The Lohrheidestadion in Bochum is being modernised for the athletics competition at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games. To see the extensive redevelopment project proceeding on time and to budget, the FISU management team led by President Leonz Eder toured the site in March and presented the official venue plaque to Bochum's Lord Mayor, Thomas Eiskirch.

Macron named official supplier

The Italian sporting apparel manufacturer was announced in June as the supplier of clothing for all volunteers, staff members and officials attending the FISU Games next July. The collaboration emphasises the joint commitment of both partners to sustainability and environmental protection. Macron relies on environmentally friendly materials and innovative manufacturing methods in its production. The use of recycled fabrics and sustainable production processes ensures that the clothing is not only functional and comfortable, but also makes a positive contribution to the environment.

Observer Programme at EUSA Games 2024 and Rhine-Ruhr 2025 takes part in EUSA Forum 2024

On the occasion of the European Universities Games, which took place in Hungary in July, the Organising Committee of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in the person of Junior Manager Delegation Services Claudia Southwell spoke at the EUSA (European University Sports Association) Forum 2024 in Debrecen. In addition, part of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games Organising Committee took part in the Oberserver programme. The team gained first-hand experience, promoted the upcoming Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games and fostered cooperation with various stakeholders.

A bird called Wanda

In August, Wanda the peregrine falcon was unveiled as the mascot of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games. The cute bird made her international debut at the Olympic Games in Paris, causing a sensation.

Berlin and Hagen jump on board

Of course, on any long journey there are always a few bumps in the road. The entry of Berlin and Hagen as additional Host Cities in September helped to secure the future of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games, with swimming, diving and volleyball moving to the capital, and the Ischelandhalle hosting basketball matches. Bochum, Duisburg, and Essen also stepped in with additional venues, while Mülheim an der Ruhr stood firm as the undisputed badminton capital of Germany.

Music star Ayliva announced as Opening Ceremony headliner

The German singing sensation was named alongside the WDR Funkhausorchester and rapper Montez for the Opening Ceremony in Duisburg's Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena. Tickets went on sale at the end of September and are available here.

Merch shop open

The official merchandise shop was opened in October. Whether it's T-shirts, hoodies, caps or even socks - there's something for everyone here, for children and adults alike. The new collection is the perfect way to get in the mood for the FISU Games! According to our motto: ‘Everyone plays!’ - and that also applies to your wardrobe. Click here to go to the merchandise shop.

We want you!

In November 2024, the ‘We want you!’ campaign called for people to become part of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games. We are therefore inviting people, clubs, schools, universities and creative minds to show their enthusiasm and become part of this unique summer. From exciting competitions and interactive workshops to live music and creative projects - you can not only watch, but also actively participate. Apply here and help shape the FISU Games!

Ski Aggu to open Ruhr Games 2025

In November, the German artist Ski Aggu was announced as the opener for the RUHR GAMES – a four-day urban sports and cultural event at the Jahrhunderthalle in Bochum. Normally a standalone fixture on the NRW landscape, the RUHR GAMES in 2025 will sit alongside the 3x3 basketball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball competitions of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games, and the FISU World Conference, which will also take place in the Jahrhunderthalle. The dovetailing of the two emphasises the importance of the Ruhr region as a unique melting pot for international sport, culture, and young talent.

FISU World Conference off to a flyer

Tickets for the FISU World Conference went on sale in December. Places for participation are limited – it is first come, first serve, to the academic highlight of the FISU Games. The three-day programme will create a platform for interdisciplinary exchange that promotes research and creativity across academic boundaries. Further information on registration and ticket options is available here.

Adopt a Delegation launched

In December the extraordinary school project ‘Adopt a Delegation’ was launched. The aim of the programme is to motivate schools from the region to sponsor one of the international delegations. Each participating school becomes the ‘fan base’ of its delegation for the FISU Games - from cultural projects to creative activities on site. More information on the project can be found here.

A grand finale with Deichkind

Twelve days of high-octane action in the Rhine-Ruhr region and Berlin will end with a special highlight: the Hamburg cult band Deichkind will give a concert in the Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, while the closing ceremony will take place at the same time. Tickets for the Closing Concert [PH1] went on sale on 10 December. Click here to get yours.

Human rights day: Rhine-Ruhr 2025 sets an example

An important step was taken in the NRW Sports Committee - the Declaration of Principles on Respect for Human Rights and Sustainability Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games was officially signed. This signature emphasised our event's clear

The year 2025 will be eventful and characterised by many sporting highlights. The focus will be on the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games from 16 July to 27 July 2025, but the 2025 sports world can also look forward to the announcement of new top acts and other sporting and non-sporting highlights.

The Rhine-Ruhr 2025 team is looking forward to the next challenges, wishes you happy holidays and a good start to 2025.

© Lennart Speer (DEICHKIND)