World University Games 2025: Let the Games Commence!
World University Games Set for Hosting in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) in the Year 2025 (Rhine Ruhr Games)
Get ready to witness an extravaganza of student athletes from across the globe! From July 16 to 27, 2025, the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region and Berlin will pulsate with energy as they host the FISU World University Games.
These games, much like the Olympic Games, will see over 8,500 athletes and officials from approximately 150 nations competing fiercely across 18 diverse sports. The action will span five cities in North Rhine-Westphalia and the electrifying city of Berlin.
So buckle up as we guide you through the thrilling venues:
The Awaited Venues
North Rhine-Westphalia, our beautiful host state, will have several cities bearing the brunt of the action:
- Bochum: Lohrheidestadion and Jahrhunderthalle
- Duisburg: ASC Duisburg (Am Barbarasee), Regattabahn Duisburg, Walter-Schädlich-Halle, Sportpark Duisburg, Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena (Opening and Closing Ceremony), Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Essen: Grugahalle, Messe Essen, ETuF Tennisanlage, Sportpark Am Hallo, Sporthalle Am Hallo, Zeche Zollverein
- Mülheim an der Ruhr: Westenergie Sporthalle
- Hagen: Ischelandhalle
Berlin, the capital, will add a dash of flavor to the mix with its unique hospitality, hosting three sports.
Sports Galore!
The games promise a whopping 12 days of non-stop action, showcasing 19 different sports. Here's your guide to the sporting spectacle:
- Bochum: 3x3 Basketball, 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Athletics
- Duisburg: Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Rowing, Water Polo
- Essen: Basketball, Archery, Fencing, Gymnastics, Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Tennis, Table Tennis
- Mülheim an der Ruhr: Badminton
- Hagen: Basketball
- Berlin: Swimming, Volleyball, Diving
With that, we can hardly wait for the frenzy to start in July 2025! As Essen's vibrant Mayor, Thomas Kufen, puts it: "Bochum, Duisburg, Essen, and Mülheim an der Ruhr are eager to enthrall both athletes and fans with their unique vibe, and the region's undying love for sports. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable ride!"
Written by Joachim Schultheis
Fun Fact:
Did you know? Berlin is also eyeing the chance to host the Olympics in 2036, 2040, or 2044. However, this quest for the prestigious event is a separate matter from the World University Games.
In Bochum, spectators can look forward to watching 3x3 Basketball, 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, and Athletics.
Essen will host Basketball, Archery, Fencing, Gymnastics, Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Tennis, Table Tennis, and Badminton in North Rhine-Westphalia.