Flame Relay in Essen sends a strong signal of community spirit

Helmholtz-Gymnasium Participates in “Adopt a Delegation” Program

The day began at Helmholtz-Gymnasium, where several hundred enthusiastic students kicked off the relay. The school is part of the “Adopt a Delegation” program of the Games and has partnered with the delegations from Burundi and the Comoros Islands—an initiative that promotes hospitality and international exchange. Rising tennis star and Games ambassador Gina Dittmann, a native of Essen, also started her journey with the flame from the school, taking it along on its route through the city.

After stops at the city park and the University of Duisburg-Essen campus—where the flame was passed to students—the relay continued via the Volunteer Mile to Burgplatz, the final destination of the day.

Main stage at Burgplatz

At Burgplatz, Mayor Thomas Kufen and Neele Koch, Team Lead Sports at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games, welcomed the flame on stage. Amid enthusiastic applause from the crowd, the official Host City plaque was presented to the City of Essen—a highly symbolic moment that visibly boosted anticipation for the 2025 Games.

“With today’s events, the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 World University Games have truly arrived in Essen,” said Mayor Thomas Kufen. “We are excited to host athletes and delegations from around the globe. The excitement shown by our schools, sports clubs, the University of Duisburg-Essen, and on the city’s streets makes it clear: Essen will be a fantastic venue for these sporting highlights.”

Niklas Börger, CEO of Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games gGmbH, also praised the city's efforts: “Today, Essen powerfully demonstrated how a Host City can unite heart, dedication, and sporting spirit. This was a strong signal on the road to the Games.”

A special highlight on stage came from young Essener Maurice Fuchs, Kung-Fu world champion and aspiring musician, who applied through the “Call for Participation” program. In a short performance, he showcased his talent to the audience—sending a creative message of the city’s diversity and talent, and offering a glimpse of what’s to come this summer alongside the sporting events at the Park Festival in Grugapark: a colorful celebration of sport. Gina Dittmann was also moved by the event: “Feeling this energy in my hometown was a truly special experience for me. I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

RAG Foundation supports World University Games 2025 with premium partnership

The RAG Foundation is also making a key contribution to the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games. As a Premium Partner, it is supporting the world’s largest multi-sport event for students. This commitment not only underscores the Foundation’s dedication to education, science, and culture in former mining regions, but also its strong connection to the Ruhr area and its future.

Photos: © Andrea Bowinkelmann