Euro University Sport ready to begin in Val di Zoldo
From 14 to 18 December 2025, Val di Zoldo in the Province of Belluno will once again become a key stage for European university sport, hosting the European Universities Winter Championships for the second time. The event is organised by the European University Sports Association (EUSA) in partnership with CUS Venezia, leading the Local Organising Committee together with Ca’ Foscari University and IUAV University of Venice.
More than 2,000 guests-nights, including student-athletes from 22 countries and 60 universities, will compete in alpine skiing, snowboard and snow volley—three disciplines that combine technical rigor with a compelling alpine landscape framed by Mount Pelmo and Mount Civetta.
A renewed endorsement of Val di Zoldo’s organisational capacity
Following the highly successful 2023 edition, the return of the Championships confirms Val di Zoldo’s reputation as a reliable and experienced host. The area has invested for decades in winter sports infrastructure and operational know-how, supported by the long-standing expertise of CUS Venezia, active in international sports events since the 1970s.
Haris Pavletić, President of EUSA, who previously visited Val di Zoldo during the last edition, emphasises the organisation’s enthusiasm:
“EUSA is delighted to see the European Universities Winter Sports Championships return to Val di Zoldo. We wish all athletes and participating teams the very best, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Local Organising Committee and CUS Venezia for their dedication and professionalism in delivering these Championships.”
A strategic event for Italy in an Olympic season
The 2025 Championships carry an additional layer of significance: the Italian Ministry for Sport has formally endorsed the event, recognising its relevance on the international calendar at just over one month before the Olympic Games. This support reflects Italy’s commitment to nurturing sports culture, strengthening organisational capabilities, and projecting a positive national image ahead of major global events.
Leadership, cooperation and vision
For Massimo Zanotto, President of the Local Organising Committee and of CUS Venezia, the event embodies both sporting value and international connection:
“This event invites participants to experience intense emotions, friendship and memories that will last for years. Our goal is to provide a technically outstanding setting while creating an environment where every athlete feels part of an international community. We are grateful for the invaluable support of Minister Andrea Abodi, as well as all institutions and partners who stand with us on this journey.”
A position shared by the national governance of university sport. Antonio Dima, President of FederCUSI, notes:
“The second edition of the EUSA Winter Games in Val di Zoldo offers a double confirmation: the proven expertise of CUS Venezia in organising winter university events in synergy with academic and local institutions, and the growing attractiveness of our movement at the European level.”
The Championships benefit from the collaboration of EUSA, CUS Venezia, the Ministry for Sport, the Veneto Region, the Province of Belluno, the Municipality of Val di Zoldo, Val di Zoldo Funivie, the Ski Civetta area, and the local hospitality system. Technical coordination is supported by FISI – the Italian Winter Sports Federation and FIPAV – the Italian Volleyball Federation.
Val di Zoldo: a mountain community shaped by sport and hospitality
Val di Zoldo is not just the venue of the Championships; it is a territory deeply connected to winter sport. Having hosted six editions of the Italian National University Winter Championships and the EUSA event in 2023, the valley has developed strong organisational capabilities and a tourism model that blends authenticity with international openness.
Roberto Padrin, President of the Province of Belluno, highlights this value:
“We are proud to see Val di Zoldo once again take centre stage in an international event. From 15 to 18 December 2025 we will welcome young athletes from across Europe, offering the unique hospitality of the Dolomites and promoting the excellence of our territory. The Belluno area will once again show its ability to work as a team and deliver its best.”
The local perspective is reinforced by Camillo De Pellegrin, Mayor of Val di Zoldo:
“We are ready to host the second edition of the European Universities Winter Championships. Our valley lives sport all year round and offers infrastructure, professionalism and authentic hospitality. We thank CUS Venezia, FederCUSI, EUSA and all local stakeholders who make an event of this scale possible.”
High-quality facilities, a well-prepared hospitality system and the contribution of volunteers complete a cohesive ecosystem capable of turning every competition into a cultural, sporting and tourism experience of real significance.
Event partners include Pam Panorama, Cooperativa Lavoratori Zanardi, I.CO.S. srl, Ferrari Ferruccio, and Hotel Saturnia & International Venice, alongside local operators who support the Championships.