Author: Anja Sovic

Among the 15 sports included in the European Youth Olympic Festival Skopje 2025 programme is artistic gymnastics – the only sport that will not take place in North Macedonia but rather in Croatia. Specifically, in the eastern Croatian city of Osijek.

This is truly a gymnastics city, which has hosted the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup an impressive 16 times since 2009, all in the Gradski vrt Arena. From 20 to 26 July, the same venue will welcome gymnasts from 40 European countries (37 women’s teams and 34 men’s teams). The girls’ competition will see a record number of 34 countries competing with full teams!

“Osijek offers fantastic conditions for gymnastics, has a strong tradition, and experienced people who know how to organise events like this. That’s why it’s only natural for the capital of Croatian gymnastics to host this competition. I invite everyone to come in July and enjoy EYOF, just as they do every year at the FIG World Cup, because this summer in Osijek we’ll have the chance to watch future Olympic champions and global gymnastics stars,” said Zlatko Mateša, member of the Executive Committee of the European Olympic Committees and President of the Croatian Olympic Committee.

The Mayor of Osijek, Ivan Radić, also expressed pride that his city will, for the first time in Croatian history, co-host EYOF.

“This is a great honour for Osijek, Slavonia and Baranja, but also for the whole of Croatia. We are expecting over 200 young gymnasts, and we’ve secured accommodation for them in our ‘Olympic Village’ – the student campus with 800 beds, opened three years ago and one of the largest in the country. The arena and facilities in Osijek are excellent, and I can already say that Osijek is ready for EYOF,” said Mayor Radić.

Event schedule

• Tuesday, 22 July – MAG qualifications, including team and all-around medal events
• Wednesday, 23 July – WAG qualifications, including team and all-around medal events
• Thursday, 24 July – Mixed Team Final
• Friday, 25 July – Apparatus Finals
• Saturday, 26 July – Apparatus Finals

The European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, taking place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, is the largest sporting event ever organized in our country. To ensure the successful realization of this major festival, support is needed from a large number of young people who will join as volunteers and become part of the team that will represent Skopje and North Macedonia to thousands of participants and guests from across Europe.

In this spirit, the organizers of EYOF Skopje 2025 are issuing an open call for young people from Skopje to apply for volunteer roles and make their personal contribution to the success of this important event. Volunteers will play a vital role in the organization – from providing logistical support at sports competitions, welcoming and guiding sports delegations, assisting with media activities, to participating in the opening and closing ceremonies. They will be the first faces young athletes and their teams will meet upon arrival in Skopje, acting as ambassadors of the city and the country.

For volunteers, EYOF Skopje 2025 is a unique opportunity for personal and professional development. They will gain practical experience in organizing a major international event, work in a dynamic international environment, develop communication and organizational skills, and create new friendships and networks with young people from all over Europe. All volunteers will receive an official certificate of participation, training, a volunteer kit, and ongoing support from the organizing team. In addition to being involved in one of the biggest sporting events in Europe, volunteers will work in an intercultural environment and build a network of contacts that could benefit them in the future. This is a chance for personal growth, confidence building, and learning through hands-on experience.

The involvement of young people from Skopje is especially important – they know the city, its energy, and its spirit, and through their engagement will help present it in the best possible way. Volunteers are not just assistants – they are the driving force, a key element without which the festival could not take place.

Volunteer applications are now open and are being accepted through the official EYOF Skopje 2025 website. Interested young people don’t need to have previous experience – all that’s required is a willingness to learn, work in a team, and a love for sports. EYOF Skopje 2025 is more than a sports festival – it’s a chance for young people to be part of a great European story and leave a lasting mark in the history of macedonian sport.

From July 20 to 26, 2025, Skopje will become the epicenter of youth sports in Europe as it hosts the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) – the continent’s largest sporting event for young athletes. Over 4,000 young talents from 50 countries will experience Olympic magic, competing in 15 sporting disciplines and sharing a passion for sport, fair play, and friendship.

Sports That Shape Future Champions

The EYOF Skopje 2025 program features a wide range of individual and team sports, taking place in modern sports centers across Skopje, Kumanovo, and Osijek (Croatia). Athletics, swimming, gymnastics, judo, cycling, and mountain biking are among the most thrilling disciplines, where young athletes will proudly and enthusiastically represent their countries.

Team sports such as handball, volleyball, basketball, and 3×3 basketball will offer exciting showdowns filled with emotion and team strategy. Also included are badminton, archery, canoe slalom, taekwondo, and table tennis – sports that demand precision, focus, and a competitive spirit.

Venues Where New Sports Stories Will Be Written

Skopje will be the heart of the festival, hosting competitions in the city’s largest sports arenas, including the “Boris Trajkovski” Arena, “Jane Sandanski” Sports Center, and the Athletics Stadium, which will welcome Europe’s top young athletes. The stadium will serve as the primary venue for athletics events, hosting track, jump, and throwing competitions.

Kumanovo will host the cycling and basketball events, while Osijek will be the venue for gymnastics competitions, adding an international dimension to the festival. Each location will offer a unique sporting experience – a place where new sports stars will be born and the victories of future champions will be celebrated.

Sport as a Language That Connects Youth

EYOF Skopje 2025 is much more than just a sporting event – it’s an opportunity for young people to build bridges of friendship, respect, and understanding through sport. With the Olympic values as its guiding principle and the presence of the official mascot Shiny, the festival will be a celebration of youthful energy and a passion for an active lifestyle.

The event will also feature educational and cultural activities, fostering interaction between different nations and inspiring future generations of athletes who dream of performing on the world’s biggest stages.

Be Part of Europe’s Sporting Future!

North Macedonia is ready to welcome Europe’s sporting hopefuls with open hearts, organizational dedication, and true sporting spirit. EYOF Skopje 2025 promises a week filled with emotions, new friendships, sports magic, and unforgettable moments.

Learn more about the EYOF Skopje 2025 festival at: https://www.instagram.com/skopje_2025/

Interview with Jovan Toshevski, Marketing and Branding Manager for EYOF 2025

The European Youth Olympic Festival is one of the biggest sports events to ever be organized in North Macedonia. What is the significance of the festival, both for sports and for the broader public?

EYOF Skopje 2025 marks a historic moment for sports in our country and for the international reputation of North Macedonia. This is the first time our country is hosting a multi-sport event of such rank, bringing together over 4,000 athletes, coaches, and delegations from 50 European countries. The festival, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, is much more than just a sports competition – it is a symbol of European unity, of Olympic values such as fair play, respect and friendship, and ultimately, an investment in the future.

From the public’s perspective, the festival offers a chance for citizens to be part of something big and inspirational. Young people will be motivated to engage in sports, to dream of competing in the Olympic Games, while at the same time local sports capacities and infrastructure will be improved. This festival will shine a positive spotlight on North Macedonia on the European map, not only as a sporting host but also as a cultural and tourist destination.

From a brand perspective, why is EYOF an important event, and what do companies gain by joining as partners or sponsors?

EYOF 2025 offers a unique opportunity for brands that want to align with positive, authentic values and reach a wide audience. Every sponsor or partner doesn’t just get a logo on a banner – they become part of a broader story that unites youth, sports, energy, emotion, and European solidarity.

With more than 4,000 athletes, their teams, coaches, and families, and tens of thousands of visitors attending competitions and fan zones, each brand will enjoy direct and indirect exposure to diverse target groups. Furthermore, through our communication strategy – which includes traditional media, digital platforms, influencers and TV broadcasts – brands will benefit from comprehensive media promotion, amplified by emotional impact and a context that is hard to replicate through standard campaigns.

You have already signed agreements with several companies. Who are the current sponsors and what role do they play in EYOF?

We are proud to have already welcomed several important and strong brands as sponsors – Gorska, Komercijalna Banka AD Skopje, Joma, Sloga, Avant Car, Erasmus+, the Red Cross, the Volunteer Centre Skopje and Media Centre.

Each of these partners plays a crucial role. For example, Gorska, a natural mineral water brand, will be present at all sports venues and fan zones, providing hydration for athletes, volunteers, and the audience. Komercijalna Banka, with its long-standing support for youth and sports, provides not only financial backing but also strategic collaboration.

Joma is the technical sponsor responsible for outfitting some of the delegations and the official team, while Sloga and Avant Car contribute with logistics, transportation, and technical support for the organization. With Erasmus+, the Red Cross, and the Volunteer Centre Skopje, we are working on implementing a strong volunteer program – the heart of the event – with over 800 volunteers.

All of these partnerships show us that EYOF is not just a sports project, but a social one – uniting different sectors around a shared vision for success.

What are your expectations regarding attendance and media coverage? How much visibility will partners receive?

We expect a large turnout, both from local audiences and international guests – families, sports delegations, tourists, and media representatives. Our projections estimate tens of thousands of physical visitors, especially during the opening, closing, and final competitions.

Media coverage is also a priority – we will have a dedicated media center, agreements with national and regional TV stations for live broadcasts, involvement of online and print media, and a significant portion of coverage will happen on social media. This will give partners continuous visibility – not only at event locations but also in the digital space where young people are most active. Every communication touchpoint – from press conferences to fan activities – will be designed to incorporate sponsor branding.

How can companies from different industries get involved, and what types of partnerships do you offer?

We are open to partnerships with companies from all sectors – food and beverage, finance, insurance, technology, textiles, energy, mobile operators, the automotive industry, and many others. EYOF is an event with enormous scope, enabling the creation of customized packages tailored to each company’s interests and resources.

We offer multiple levels of sponsorship – gold, silver, and bronze – as well as thematic partnerships, such as sponsoring a specific sport, fan zone, volunteer program, or the opening and closing ceremonies. Each partner receives a personalized approach based on their target audience and business goals.

We invite all companies not to view this as just another sponsorship deal, but as a long-term investment in their image, in sports, in youth, and in the European future of North Macedonia. Together, we can build an event that leaves a lasting legacy – sporting, social, and economic.

North Macedonia will host the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF Skopje 2025) – the largest multi-sport event for young athletes in Europe. From July 20 to 26, Skopje and Kumanovo will welcome more than 4.000 athletes from 50 European countries, who will compete in 15 different sports disciplines. The festival will be a unique opportunity to promote sports, young talent, and Olympic values, with volunteers playing a key role in its success.

More than 900 volunteers will take part in this project, actively involved in various sectors such as logistics, accreditation, media, athlete and delegation services, ceremonies, and sports venues. Volunteers will have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to gain invaluable experience, develop new skills, and be at the heart of an event that brings together youth through sport and Olympic ideals. Volunteering at EYOF Skopje 2025 is not just about supporting the event—it’s a chance for personal growth, making new friendships, and creating lifelong memories.

The Organizing Committee has announced the official call for volunteers and invites everyone interested—regardless of age or experience—to apply and become part of this large sports family. Applications are now open, and all the details about the process can be found on the festival’s official website. EYOF Skopje 2025 is not just a sports competition; it’s a celebration of youthful energy, friendship, and unity—and volunteers will be the driving force behind turning this vision into reality.

In addition to helping organize such a significant international event, volunteers will also receive official certificates for their participation—valuable credentials for future opportunities in sports, event management, and teamwork. Their contribution will be recognized and appreciated, and the experience gained during the festival will open doors for career growth and personal development.

Athletics, swimming, judo, cycling, and gymnastics are just some of the sports in which young Olympic hopefuls will compete, proudly representing their countries. The festival will place a special focus on team sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, and 3×3 basketball, which test not only physical endurance but also highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Other sports included in the rich program are badminton, canoe slalom, archery, taekwondo, and table tennis—giving young athletes from across Europe the chance to showcase their skills and competitive spirit.

During the festival, most competitions will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host cycling and basketball events. The unique sporting atmosphere will be further enriched by rhythmic gymnastics, taking place in Osijek, Croatia – creating a true Olympic spirit across multiple locations.

If you would like to join this sports spectacle as a volunteer, find more information here: https://skopje2025.sporteurope.org/skopje-volunteers/

From July 20 to 26, 2025, Skopje will become the epicenter of youth sports in Europe as it hosts the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) – the largest sporting event for young athletes on the continent. This prestigious festival will bring together over 2,500 talented athletes from 48 European countries who will compete in 15 sports disciplines, showcasing their dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Sports That Inspire and Unite

The EYOF Skopje 2025 program includes 15 sports disciplines that will take place in state-of-the-art sports arenas in the capital city, as well as in Kumanovo and Osijek, Croatia. Athletics, swimming, judo, cycling, and gymnastics are just some of the sports in which young Olympic hopefuls will compete, proudly representing their national colors.

Team sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, and 3×3 basketball will be given special emphasis, as they not only test physical endurance but also highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Other sports included in the festival’s rich program are badminton, canoe slalom, archery, taekwondo, and table tennis – all providing young athletes from across Europe the chance to demonstrate their skills and competitive spirit.

Arenas Witnessing the Rise of New Sports Heroes

Throughout the festival, Skopje will host the majority of competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome cyclists and basketball players. A unique sporting atmosphere will be further enhanced by rhythmic gymnastics events taking place in Osijek, creating a true Olympic vibe across multiple locations.

Sport venues such as the Boris Trajkovski Sports Center, Jane Sandanski Arena and the athletics stadium will witness new records, emotional victories, and unforgettable moments that will inspire future generations of athletes. The athletics stadium, serving as the main venue for track and field events, will host a variety of disciplines including running, jumping, and throwing competitions.

A Vision for the Future – Sport as a Driving Force for Youth

EYOF Skopje 2025 is not just a competition; it is a platform for building new friendships, mutual learning, and developing future sports ambassadors. The festival will emphasize the importance of team spirit, respect, and fair play, while the official mascot Shiny will bring additional energy and positive vibes, symbolizing youthful passion for sport. Skopje is ready to become the stage for future sports stars, where every competition will tell a story of success, effort, and love for the game.

Get ready for an exciting sporting celebration filled with dynamic competitions, enthusiastic crowds, and unforgettable memories – North Macedonia is ready to host the next generation of European sports stars!

If you would like to be part of this sports spectacle as a volunteer, find more information here.

Edi Sherifovski is a judoka who represented North Macedonia at the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Gyor in 2017 and who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In this interview, he talks about his experience at EYOF, how the event helped his sports career, and what advice he has for young athletes participating in the upcoming EYOF Skopje 2025, which will take place at the end of July this year.

How was your experience at the European Youth Olympic Festival?

Participating in EYOF was one of the most important experiences in my career. It was my first major international event, where I competed against the best young athletes from all over Europe. EYOF is not just a competition, it is also an opportunity to feel the Olympic atmosphere, meet top sports rivals, and form friendships that still last today. This event opened the door for me to professional sports because it taught me how to handle pressure, how to be disciplined, and what true athletic preparation really means.

How did EYOF help you in your further career?

EYOF was real preparation for the big competitions that followed. After participating, I gained a lot more confidence and clearly saw what I needed to work on to advance. Additionally, EYOF gave me the opportunity to showcase myself in front of international coaches and selectors, which opened up new opportunities in my sports career. It was my first step towards major competitions, and later I competed in other European and World Championships, with the highlight being my performance at the Paris Olympics last year.

What advice would you give to young athletes participating in EYOF Skopje 2025?

EYOF can be the beginning of something big for every young athlete. The most important thing is to enjoy the competition and give your best, and this experience will shape them not only as athletes but also as individuals. They should seize the opportunity to meet top competitors, learn from each fight, and enjoy the atmosphere. EYOF is not just a sports event; it’s a moment that can change their life, just like it changed mine.

How do you view the fact that North Macedonia will host EYOF 2025?

This is a great honor and opportunity for Macedonian sports. We will have the chance to show that we can organize major events and that young athletes in Macedonia have quality and potential. I believe that this will be an inspiration for all young people to dedicate themselves to sports and dream big dreams. I expect an incredible atmosphere and strong support for our athletes.

What do you think about the role of volunteers at such events?

Volunteers are the heart of every major sports event. They create a positive atmosphere, facilitate organization, and are the bridge between athletes and the audience. Without them, such events would not be possible. A great respect for all those who decide to be part of EYOF 2025 as volunteers because they will be key to the successful realization of this event.

Will you be part of EYOF Skopje 2025 and in what way?

Of course! I will gladly support the event, whether as part of the organization or as support for the young athletes. This festival gave me a lot, and now it’s time for me to give something back. I will strive to motivate young judokas and all athletes to make the most of this opportunity in the best possible way.

If you want to join this sports spectacle as a volunteer, you can find more information at the following link: https://skopje2025.sporteurope.org/skopje-volunteers/

The European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, set to take place at the end of July, is more than just a top-tier sports event — it is a symbol of unity, youthful energy, and dedication. At the heart of this grand event will be the volunteers – individuals whose passion, commitment, and enthusiasm will shape the experience for thousands of participants, guests, and spectators.

Volunteers as the Driving Force of EYOF Skopje 2025

Volunteers will not simply support logistics – they will be true ambassadors of the EYOF spirit. Their roles will span everything from organizing sports competitions, welcoming and guiding delegations, supporting media activities, to creating a warm and inspiring atmosphere for all visitors. They will be the first faces young athletes from across Europe will see upon arriving in Skopje.

Opportunities for Personal and Professional Growth

Volunteering at EYOF Skopje 2025 offers a priceless experience for all young people eager to grow and develop. In addition to contributing to one of the largest sporting events in Europe, volunteers will gain new skills, work in an intercultural environment, and build a network of contacts that may benefit them in the future. This is a chance for personal growth, confidence-building, and learning through hands-on experience.

An Easy Way to Be Part of History

EYOF Skopje 2025 will leave a lasting mark on the history of Macedonian sport and culture. Everyone who signs up as a volunteer will be part of the team that writes this story. Their energy and enthusiasm will be the driving force that helps create an unforgettable experience for participants and guests alike.

How to Apply?

The application process is simple. All young people interested in being part of this sports spectacle can apply through the official EYOF Skopje 2025 website. No previous experience is required – the most important things are the willingness to learn, to work as part of a team, and a love for sports.

EYOF Skopje 2025 is more than just a festival – it’s a chance to be part of something greater. Volunteers are the heart of this event, and together, they will create moments that will be remembered forever.

North Macedonia will be the center of European youth sports at the end of July 2025, when Skopje and Kumanovo will host the largest multi-sport event in the country’s history – the European Youth Olympic Festival, EYOF Skopje 2025. Thousands of young athletes from across the continent will compete in the spirit of Olympic values, bringing energy, passion, and sportsmanship to the heart of the Balkans.

What is the European Youth Olympic Festival?

EYOF Skopje 2025 is a prestigious sporting event featuring young athletes aged 14 to 18 who will compete in multiple sports disciplines. This festival marks the first step toward future Olympic victories, as many of its participants have historically gone on to reach the top of European and world sports. The festival serves as a platform that unites young athletes from across Europe through sport, promoting the spirit of collaboration, friendship, and respect. With its significance and scale, EYOF 2025 is an opportunity for North Macedonia to showcase its potential on the international stage and strengthen its position on Europe’s sports and cultural map.

EYOF Skopje 2025 is also a celebration of youth, culture, and sportsmanship. In addition to the sporting competitions, the event will feature a vibrant accompanying program with cultural events, music performances, and activities that will highlight Macedonian cultural heritage to an international audience.

Which sports will be included in the program?

EYOF Skopje 2025 will welcome more than 2,500 young athletes from 48 European countries who will compete in 15 sports disciplines, including athletics, basketball, volleyball, handball, swimming, judo, and 3×3 basketball. The competitions will take place at state-of-the-art sports facilities in Skopje and Kumanovo, adapted to meet the strictest international standards. These events will offer young athletes the chance to exchange experiences, make new friendships, and feel the unique energy that comes with the spirit of sport.

How is North Macedonia preparing for EYOF Skopje 2025?

Through the organization of EYOF Skopje 2025, North Macedonia is demonstrating its readiness to host events of the highest European level. Investments in sports infrastructure, support from local and international institutions, and the dedication of the team working on the project ensure that the festival will be a success and leave a lasting legacy. Organizing such a complex event requires serious logistics, detailed planning, multidisciplinary cooperation, and intense coordination. Numerous national sports federations, the Macedonian Olympic Committee, and other relevant institutions are actively collaborating to provide optimal conditions for all participants.

Volunteers – The Heart of the Festival

One of the key elements to the successful organization of EYOF Skopje 2025 will be the volunteers. Hundreds of young people will have the opportunity to be part of the biggest sports event in Macedonia, gaining invaluable experience in sports event organization, communication, and teamwork. Volunteering at such events is an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development, as well as for creating new friendships and connections across Europe.

Macedonia on the Sports Map of Europe

Hosting a major sporting event like this represents a huge step forward for Macedonian sport. EYOF Skopje 2025 will position Macedonia as a destination capable of organizing top-tier events and will inspire future generations of athletes. This is a chance for our country to shine in the best light and showcase its potential as a true sports arena.

If you would like to be part of this sporting spectacle as a volunteer, more information is available at: https://skopje2025.sporteurope.org/skopje-volunteers/