The Rhine-Ruhr region in Germany is set to welcome over 9,200 student-athletes from more than 150 nations as the 2025 FISU World University Games officially open on Wednesday, July 16.
This marks the largest turnout in the history of the summer edition of the Games.
“Never before have summer editions of the FISU Games seen this many participants,” organizers confirmed in a statement, underscoring the scale of the event.
The Games will span six venues across two federal states—North Rhine-Westphalia and Berlin—and will feature a wide range of sports, cultural activities, and academic exchange.
The event also serves as a launchpad for many athletes who later compete at the Olympic level.
Germany will be represented by its largest delegation ever: 305 athletes and 177 team officials.
Dr. Christiane Schenderlein, Minister of State for Sport and Volunteering, praised the years of preparation behind the event.
“The organizing committee, with more than 600 employees and freelancers, deserves our recognition. They overcame a huge challenge in delivering such a large-scale, multi-site event,” she said.
She also emphasized the values embedded in the Games. “This will be a festival of international university sport, science, and community—held sustainably, inclusively, and with joy.”
Jörg Förster, Chair of the General German University Sports Association, highlighted the symbolic importance of Team Germany’s historic size. “It reflects the growing significance of elite student sports in Germany and the strength of collaboration behind this effort.”
Niklas Börger, who heads the organizing committee, called the event “the result of great teamwork” and noted its role in showcasing the region’s passion and capacity beyond athletics.