Author: jose.rivas

As part of the “Outdoor and Travel Fair,” taking place from April 25 to 27 at Skopje City Mall, the Macedonian Olympic Committee (MOC) is presenting its own stand as part of the promotional activities for the upcoming European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025. The MOC stand at Skopje City Mall is open to visitors from 11 AM to 6 PM.

MOC’s presence at this event is part of a broader initiative aimed at engaging the public and raising awareness about the importance of this major sports festival, which will bring the Olympic spirit to Skopje and Kumanovo from July 20 to 26 this year.

At the stand, visitors can enjoy various interactive activities and games inspired by the sporting and Olympic spirit, while also learning more about EYOF’s mission and values. Additionally, all those who sign up to volunteer at the festival will receive special gifts as a token of appreciation for their willingness to be part of the organization of this prestigious event.

The MOC stand will also be visited by the Minister of Sports, Borko Ristovski, who will tour the fair and show his support for the ongoing preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025.

The Macedonian Olympic Committee encourages all citizens to visit the fair, get informed, have fun, and become part of the EYOF Skopje 2025 family. Through its participation in the “Outdoor and Travel Fair,” MOC continues to build a bridge between the public and the Olympic values, presenting the festival as a national event that will bring positive energy, a strong sporting spirit, and unforgettable moments for all participants and visitors.

This summer, more than 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025, which will be held from July 20 to 26. Competitions will be organized across 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. Skopje will host the majority of the competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome the cyclists and basketball players. The unique sporting atmosphere will be enhanced by the gymnastics events taking place in Osijek, creating a true Olympic ambiance across multiple locations.

In addition to the sporting competitions, EYOF Skopje 2025 will offer a rich cultural and educational program, designed to foster intercultural exchange, friendship, and solidarity among young athletes from across Europe. The festival represents a significant step forward in improving sports infrastructure and promoting North Macedonia internationally. At the same time, it offers young people the chance to get involved and be part of something big, inspiring, and unifying.

EYOF Skopje 2025 is more than just sports – it’s a celebration of youth, enthusiasm, and togetherness.

The European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, taking place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, offers a unique opportunity for all enthusiasts to become part of the most significant sporting event in the history of North Macedonia. More than just a European-level sports competition, the festival symbolizes unity, youthful energy, and dedication. At the heart of this grand event will be the volunteers—the passionate, engaged, and enthusiastic individuals who will shape the experience for thousands of participants, guests, and spectators.

Over 900 volunteers will be involved in various sectors, gaining the chance to be at the forefront of an elite international sporting event. They will acquire valuable experience, skills, and friendships. Their roles will cover everything from organizing sports competitions, welcoming and guiding delegations, supporting media activities, to creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for all attendees. Volunteers won’t just handle logistics—they’ll be true ambassadors of the EYOF spirit and the first friendly faces young athletes from across Europe will meet in Skopje.

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

The application process is simple. All young people interested in joining this sporting spectacle can apply through the official EYOF 2025 website. No prior experience is necessary—what matters most is the willingness to learn, the ability to work as a team, and a love for sports.

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 special emphasis on team sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, and 3×3 basketball, which not only test physical endurance but also highlight the importance of teamwork and cooperation. Other sports in the festival’s rich program include badminton, canoe slalom, archery, taekwondo, and table tennis, offering young athletes from across Europe a platform to showcase their skills and competitive spirit.

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

Don’t miss your chance to be part of North Macedonia’s sports history. Apply now and join the team that will make EYOF Skopje 2025 an unforgettable event!

Interview with Aleksandar Bogoevski, Executive Director of the European Youth Olympic Festival, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo

How are the preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025 progressing and where are you currently in terms of executing the planned activities?

Preparations are progressing intensively, and we are now entering a phase where every day and every step is crucial. In the past period, we completed several important stages – technical inspections, coordination with national sports federations, and finalizing a large part of the logistical solutions. All venues have been mapped, the sports program is finalized, and we are in the process of wrapping up operational plans by sector. We are especially proud to have strengthened cross-sector collaboration – institutions, municipalities, and the private sector are all actively involved. We have a clear timeline until July and are working according to a detailed agenda that we follow and update daily.

Why is EYOF an important event for North Macedonia, and what does it mean for the country to host such a major sporting event?

EYOF Skopje 2025 is more than just a sporting event – it’s a platform through which a country positions itself before the European public. North Macedonia, as the smallest country to ever host the festival, has a unique opportunity to send a message about its maturity, capacity, and openness. This festival will bring more than 4,000 athletes, coaches, and delegations from 49 European countries who will live, train, and compete here. It’s a true cultural and sporting symbiosis. Additionally, EYOF will have a long-term impact – it will leave behind new sports facilities, a motivated youth population, a volunteer network, and a strengthened sense of confidence in all of us as a society.

Part of the preparations included the recently held Chefs de Mission seminar. How did it go, and what were the impressions of the European delegations who visited Skopje?

The Chefs de Mission seminar is a standard practice before every EYOF, where representatives of national Olympic committees meet to get familiar with the host cities and logistical details. For many of them, it was their first official contact with North Macedonia. The feedback we received

was truly encouraging – they were impressed by the organization, the openness and professionalism of our team, and the energy we radiate. Many of them were visiting for the first time and honestly admitted they didn’t expect such a high level of preparedness. This gave us additional motivation and confidence, and confirmed that Europe is truly watching and following us – which means we cannot afford anything less than perfection.

On April 12, the “100 Days to EYOF” event was held behind East Gate Mall. How would you evaluate the event and its impact on the public?

The “100 Days to EYOF” event was the first major public signal that the festival is approaching. From the concept to the final moment – everything was aimed at engaging citizens, especially the youth. We had 3×3 basketball tournaments, fun activities, presentations of Olympic values, as well as meetings with future volunteers and athletes. It was an event where sports and fun merged with genuine civic energy. Our goal was for the public to feel the festival as their own, and the response showed us that this goal was achieved. People are beginning to identify with EYOF – as a project that presents our country and nation in the right light.

What are the next steps leading up to the start of the festival in July, and what can the public expect from the event itself?

The next three months are critical. We will conduct simulation exercises, finalize mobile teams, hold additional training for volunteers, and continue with communication activities. In parallel, we will organize extra training for our volunteers, who are one of the most important elements of the entire process. Additionally, we’ll continue our outreach efforts to the public and media so that the festival is recognized by all citizens.

As for the sports program, EYOF Skopje 2025 will include 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, Skopje will host most of the competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome the cyclists and basketball players. The unique sports atmosphere will be enhanced by the gymnastics competitions held in Osijek, creating a true Olympic vibe across different locations.

We expect over 4,000 participants, including young athletes from 49 European countries, their coaches and official delegations, as well as a large domestic audience. Along with all the additional activities – cultural programs, educational panels, and interactions among youth from across Europe – this will be a celebration of sports, youth, diversity, and European values. The public will have open access to many of the competitions, and the atmosphere will be truly Olympic – full of energy, color, positive emotions, and new friendships.

What is your personal vision – what do you hope EYOF Skopje 2025 will leave behind?

My personal wish is for EYOF to leave a lasting mark. First and foremost, to prove to our fellow citizens – and to the world – that North Macedonia can organize a complex, European, Olympic-level sports festival. I hope younger generations will remember EYOF as the moment they were inspired to take up sports, engage with the community, become volunteers, or follow their dreams.

It’s also important to me what we leave behind – new or renovated sports facilities that will serve future generations, trained staff, established processes, and knowledge that can be transferred to other projects. But above all, I want to build a sense of unity and pride among every citizen – that we were part of something big, European, and truly valuable. That will be the real success. EYOF is more than a festival – it is a turning point, a chance to show a new face, a new spirit, and a new energy of Macedonia. That’s the vision that drives me every day.

With strong public support, sports spirit, and positive energy, the event “100 Days to EYOF” was held behind East Gate Mall, symbolically launching the final countdown to the start of EYOF and marking the beginning of the final phase of preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26.

The event featured a rich program with activities for all generations. Visitors had the opportunity to take part in sports challenges such as 3×3 basketball tournaments, slam dunk contests, long-distance shooting, and interactive demonstrations of Olympic values. In addition to the sports component, there were also information points where citizens could learn how to get involved as volunteers or supporters of the upcoming festival. Through the engagement of young athletes, enthusiasts, and volunteers, the event served as a true preview of what awaits us this summer.

“100 Days to EYOF” also took on a humanitarian dimension – part of the program was dedicated to raising funds for families affected by the recent tragedy in Kočani. In this way, the organizers once again emphasized the social responsibility and solidarity of the sports community, sending a strong message of unity, support, and humanity.

The President of the Macedonian Olympic Committee, Daniel Dimevski, highlighted the importance of this event, emphasizing the role of sport as a unifying force.

“This event is a real overture to what awaits us this summer. It is more than a symbolic countdown — it reflects the enthusiasm, readiness, and unity of the Macedonian sports community. EYOF Skopje 2025 will not only celebrate sporting achievements, but also the values of tolerance, friendship, and solidarity. Our goal is to send a strong message that Macedonia is ready to be a worthy host of one of the most important youth sports festivals in Europe. We thank all citizens, volunteers, and supporters who were part of this beautiful story — together we count down to something big and meaningful,” emphasized Dimevski.

With excellent attendance and positive public reactions, the event helped build excitement ahead of the biggest sports gathering in the country. Organizers announced that over the next 100 days, many more activities will follow, aimed at engaging young people, promoting Olympic values, and mobilizing local communities.

This summer, more than 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, most competitions will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host cyclists and basketball players. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched with rhythmic gymnastics, held in Osijek, creating a true Olympic spirit across multiple locations. EYOF Skopje 2025 will be a space where young people will feel the Olympic spirit, compete, and build lifelong friendships.

View highlights from the “100 Days to EYOF” event.

If you’d like to join this sporting spectacle as a volunteer, more information is available at: https://skopje2025.sporteurope.org/skopje-volunteers/

The Minister of Sports, Borko Ristovski, emphasized the state’s support for organizing the biggest sporting event ever held in North Macedonia. Representatives from 49 European Olympic Committees have the opportunity to get acquainted with the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities of the host cities Skopje and Kumanovo.

As part of the preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, the Chefs de Mission seminar was officially opened today at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Skopje. The seminar will be held on April 9 and 10 and is attended by delegations from 49 European Olympic Committees.

Participants had the opportunity to learn more about the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities, as well as the host cities of the largest sporting event in the history of North Macedonia. The Chefs de Mission seminar is one of the key milestones in the preparations for the festival, enabling the presentation of all aspects of the organization and the exchange of experiences with the delegations participating in EYOF Skopje 2025. For Skopje and Kumanovo, as host cities, this is a unique opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for such a large-scale sports event and to prove that North Macedonia can be part of the European and global sports map.

Before the official start of the seminar, speeches were delivered by Borko Ristovski – Minister of Sports, Daniel Dimevski – President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia and Liney Halldorsdottir – Chair of the EYOF Commission of the European Olympic Committees (EOC), who all emphasized the importance of the festival for youth sports and the international promotion of North Macedonia.

Minister Borko Ristovski highlighted the state’s support in organizing such a significant sports event.

“As a Government and Ministry, we are fully committed to enabling the successful organization of EYOF Skopje 2025 and to promoting true values among young people. This is more than just a sports event – it’s an investment in the youth, in sports infrastructure, and in the image of our country. I am confident that we will be excellent hosts and that in July we will see Skopje in its best light, ready to welcome the future stars of European sports,” said Ristovski.

The President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia, Daniel Dimevski, stressed the historical significance of the European Youth Olympic Festival for the country:

“This is an exceptional sports event, the biggest ever organized by our country, with nearly 4,000 participants and many guests and officials. From July 20 to 26, North Macedonia will become the center of sports in Europe, and we will have the privilege to host the best future European sports stars, many of whom will go on to become world and Olympic champions. This also opens up an opportunity not j+пust for international promotion of North Macedonia, but for a revival of youth sports at home. We expect around 200 Macedonian athletes to compete in all disciplines as hosts. Huge thanks to the Minister and the Government for backing this project – their support is essential for us to deliver an extraordinary sports event,” said Dimevski.

Chair of the EYOF Commission at the EOC, Liney Halldorsdottir, emphasized the importance of the seminar and the efforts of the local organizers:

“This seminar is essential – we are here to ensure all elements of the organization are of the highest standard. We are impressed with the progress and the commitment of the team in Skopje and Kumanovo. Although the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia joined the project only two years ago, a lot has been accomplished. This is both a challenge and a tremendous opportunity for your country,” Halldorsdottir noted.

Ahead of the festival, Skopje will also host a major event – “100 Days to EYOF”, which will take place at East Gate Mall on Saturday, April 12. This event will also provide support to families affected by the recent tragedy in Kočani, while the sports-entertainment part will include 3×3 basketball tournaments and a rich interactive program. The event will be a great opportunity for young people to experience the Olympic spirit and become part of the countdown to the start of the festival.

This summer, over 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025, held from July 20 to 26. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, most competitions will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host the cycling and basketball events. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched by the gymnastics competitions held in Osijek, creating a true Olympic spirit across different locations.

The European Youth Olympic Festival, to be held from July 20 to 26, is the largest sporting event ever organized by our country, emphasized representatives of the European Youth Committees and the Macedonian Olympic Committee in front of the media.

In the lead-up to the biggest youth multisport event on the Old Continent, Skopje and Kumanovo are in the final phase of preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26 this year. On this occasion, the traditional Chefs de Mission seminar will be held on April 8 and 9 at the Holiday Inn hotel in Skopje, where representatives from 49 national delegations will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the organizational aspects of the festival, the sports and logistical infrastructure, and the host cities themselves.

As part of the activities related to the event, a press conference was held today, where the speakers included Daniel Dimevski – President of the Macedonian Olympic Committee (MOC), Peter Brull – Sports Director of the European Olympic Committees (EOC), and Lini Halldorsdottir – Chair of the EYOF Commission at the EOC. The attending media received an overview of the preparations so far, the expectations for the upcoming festival, and insight into the role of the Chefs de Mission seminar as a key milestone in the organization.

Daniel Dimevski, President of the Macedonian Olympic Committee, emphasized the importance of EYOF Skopje 2025 as the largest sporting event in Macedonia’s history and a crucial opportunity for the development of youth sport.

“This is an exceptionally large event – the biggest our country has ever organized. We expect nearly 4,000 participants, including athletes, coaches, officials, and logistical personnel. The full European youth sports elite will be present in Skopje and Kumanovo – young athletes who will become the biggest stars of the next Summer Olympic Games. Hosting such a festival is a true privilege, and we are especially proud that we managed to place Skopje on the map of Europe’s most important sports events. This is a unique opportunity to promote our country on a European level. On the sporting side, North Macedonia will be represented by around 200 young athletes, and as hosts, we are guaranteed participation in all sports disciplines. This allows us to take part even in sports that are only just beginning to develop in our country and to launch an entirely new generation of athletes aged 15 to 18 – a generation that will mature in the years to come. With this, we have a real chance to initiate a true restart of youth sport in our country,” said Dimevski.

Ahead of tomorrow’s Chefs de Mission seminar, Lini Halldorsdottir of the EOC highlighted the importance of EYOF 2025 for Europe and the challenges Skopje faces in organizing such a major multisport event.

“The European Youth Olympic Festival 2025 is an extremely important event for Europe. That is why tomorrow and the day after, representatives from 50 European countries will be in Skopje to attend the Chefs de Mission seminar and familiarize themselves with the organizational aspects of the festival, the sports venues, transportation, logistics capacities, and the host cities themselves. Organizing such a multisport event is a great challenge, and for Skopje, it’s an extra challenge in terms of time pressure, as the Skopje Olympic Committee joined only two years ago, when we organized EYOF 2023 in Maribor,” Halldorsdottir noted.

Peter Brull from the EOC emphasized the extraordinary value of EYOF 2025 as a stage for future Olympic stars and a major opportunity for Macedonian athletes to compete with Europe’s elite.

“In July, North Macedonia will welcome exceptionally talented young athletes. Based on experience from previous festivals, we know that those who win medals at EYOF often go on to become medal contenders at future Summer Olympics. This means we’ll be able to witness performances by the stars of tomorrow. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Macedonian athletes to compete with the best, since normally participation in an event of this caliber requires qualification – which is not easy at all. Only by competing with the best can you grow,” Brull said.

In the run-up to the festival, Skopje will also host the major event “100 Days to EYOF”, which will take place at East Gate Mall on April 12 (Saturday). This event will also offer support to families affected by the tragedy in Kochani, while the sports-entertainment portion will include 3×3 basketball tournaments and a rich interactive program. It will be a great opportunity for young people to connect with the Olympic spirit and be part of the countdown to the start of the festival.

This summer, over 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, Skopje will host the majority of competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome cyclists and basketball players. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched by gymnastics competitions held in Osijek, creating a truly Olympic environment across multiple locations.

“The Chefs de Mission Seminar is a key moment in the final preparations for the festival, where we will present our organizational readiness and strengthen cooperation with the delegations,” said Aleksandar Bogoevski, Executive Director of EYOF Skopje 2025.

Skopje and Kumanovo are in the final phase of preparations for the biggest youth multisport event in Europe – the European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Macedonia.

As part of the traditional activities leading up to each edition of the festival, the Chefs de Mission Seminar will be held on April 9 and 10 at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Skopje. Delegates from 49 participating countries will have the opportunity to become familiar with the host cities, sports venues, and the overall organization of the event.

“The Chefs de Mission Seminar is one of the key moments in the festival preparations. It’s an opportunity to present all aspects of our organization and to exchange experiences with the delegations that will be part of EYOF Skopje 2025. Our goal is to ensure the highest level of organization and hospitality, and this seminar is essential in giving the delegations a complete overview of all logistical, infrastructural, and sporting aspects of the event. For Skopje and Kumanovo as hosts, this is an outstanding opportunity to show that we are ready to welcome such a major sporting event and that we belong on the European and global sports map. It’s also a chance to prove to ourselves that our love for Macedonia and for sport unites us and makes us stronger than any social or political differences,” said Aleksandar Bogoevski, Executive Director of EYOF Skopje 2025.

Ahead of the festival, Skopje will also host a major celebration – “100 Days to EYOF”, taking place on April 12, 2025, at East Gate Mall. This event will include a tribute to the families affected by the recent tragedy in Kochani, while the sports and entertainment segment will feature 3×3 basketball tournaments and an engaging interactive program. The event will be a great opportunity for young people to connect with the Olympic spirit and be part of the countdown to the start of the festival.

This summer, more than 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. Most events will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host the cycling and basketball competitions. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched by rhythmic gymnastics, which will take place in Osijek, creating a true Olympic spirit across multiple locations.

The Organizing Committee invites all citizens, especially young people, to join the “100 Days to EYOF” celebration on April 12 and feel the excitement of this major sporting event. EYOF Skopje 2025 is not just a competition – it is a symbol of unity, youth energy, and the spirit of sport.

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

From July 20 to 26 this year, Skopje and Kumanovo will host the European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025.

North Macedonia, with its long-standing tradition in both sports and culture, is preparing to host the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) 2025—an event that will unite young sporting talents from across Europe. The festival will be much more than a sporting competition; it will be an exceptional opportunity for the country to showcase its athletic potential while also highlighting its cultural and historical significance.

EYOF Skopje 2025 will be the largest multi-sport event ever organized in the country, bringing together more than 2,500 young athletes from across the continent. From July 20 to 26, Skopje—alongside Kumanovo and Osijek, Croatia – will become a center of sporting spirit, teamwork, and Olympic values, with young athletes competing in 15 sports disciplines including athletics, swimming, basketball, volleyball, handball, judo, cycling, gymnastics and many more.

North Macedonia takes great pride in its rich sporting heritage and achievements across numerous disciplines. This event continues the country’s commitment to supporting the development of young athletes. With high-quality sports facilities and modern infrastructure, North Macedonia is ready to provide top conditions for all participants, and welcome them with warmth and hospitality.

At the same time, North Macedonia will proudly present its cultural heritage and demonstrate its ability to merge sports and culture into a successful and inspiring experience. Through this festival, the country will showcase not only its capacity to host major sporting events but also its cultural and historical value—essential for shaping future generations.

Our nation is ready to show its best—as a destination that celebrates sports, culture, and a modern way of life that inspires youth to aim high and be part of a global network of talented individuals. This event marks the beginning of new opportunities for North Macedonia, as it opens its doors to Europe and the world, offering experiences that will last long after the festival ends.

The European Youth Olympic Festival is more than just a sports event. It is a platform for North Macedonia to highlight its strengths as a destination—offering outstanding conditions for young athletes, their coaches, and companions. The festival will foster exchange, friendship, and collaboration, reinforcing North Macedonia’s role as a regional leader in hosting international sporting events.

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

EYOF Skopje 2025, taking place from July 20 to 26, is not just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of youth, friendship, and fair play. Volunteers will play a key role in shaping the spirit of this Olympic festival.

The European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025 will be the largest multi-sport event ever held in North Macedonia, bringing together more than 2,500 young athletes from across the continent. From July 20 to 26, Skopje, along with Kumanovo and Osijek, Croatia, will be the epicenter of sportsmanship, teamwork, and Olympic values, as young athletes compete in 15 sports disciplines.

This festival would not be possible without the support of volunteers, who will not only assist with logistics but will also serve as true ambassadors of the EYOF spirit. More than 900 volunteers will be engaged across various areas and will have the unique opportunity to be part of a top-tier international sporting event, gaining valuable experience, skills, and friendships. Their roles will include everything from organizing sports competitions, welcoming and guiding delegations, supporting media activities, to creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for all visitors. They will be the first faces that young athletes from all over Europe will see when they arrive in Skopje.

The Organizing Committee of EYOF Skopje 2025 has already launched the volunteer call, inviting all interested individuals to be part of this historic event. Anyone who wishes to contribute can apply and become a key member of the team that will turn this festival into an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Volunteering is a great opportunity for young people, students, sports enthusiasts, and anyone eager to contribute to a major international project while showcasing North Macedonia as an excellent host.

Athletics, swimming, judo, cycling, and gymnastics are just a few of the sports in which young Olympic hopefuls will compete, proudly representing their countries. The festival will also place special emphasis on team sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, and 3×3 basketball, which not only test physical endurance but also highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Other sports featured in the festival’s rich program include badminton, canoe slalom, archery, taekwondo, and table tennis, providing young athletes from across Europe a platform to showcase their skills and competitive spirit. Skopje will host the majority of competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome cyclists and basketball players. The unique sports experience will be complemented by rhythmic gymnastics, held in Osijek, adding to the Olympic atmosphere across multiple locations.

EYOF Skopje 2025 is more than a sporting event—it’s a celebration of youth, friendship, and fair play, with volunteers shaping the very essence of the festival. The event offers a platform that unites young athletes from all over Europe through sport, promoting cooperation, friendship, and mutual respect. Given its scale and significance, this festival is a chance for North Macedonia to showcase its potential on the international stage and strengthen its place on the European sports and cultural map.

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