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Future Olympic champions in gymnastics are coming to Osijek

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

Be Part of History: Apply to Volunteer at EYOF Skopje 2025

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.

The Sports Magic of EYOF Skopje 2025: Which Sports Will Be Featured at the Festival

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/

EYOF 2025 Is More Than Just Sports – It’s a Chance for Brands to Be Part of a European Story

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.

MOC promotes EYOF Skopje 2025 at the “Outdoor and Travel Fair” in Skopje City Mall

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.

Be Part of the Biggest Sports Event in North Macedonia – Volunteer at EYOF Skopje 2025!

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!

EYOF is an opportunity for North Macedonia to show it can organize a top-tier European 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.

100 Days to EYOF Skopje 2025 Marked with Sports and Togetherness

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 countdown begins: April 12 marks 100 days until the start of EYOF Skopje 2025

In anticipation of the biggest sporting event in the country to date, visitors at East Gate Mall this Saturday will have the opportunity to take part in various sports and entertainment activities, including 3×3 basketball tournaments, slam dunk contests, and presentations related to Olympic values and sports.

Following the successful organization of the Chefs de Mission Seminar at the “Holiday Inn” hotel in Skopje, the final preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival – EYOF Skopje 2025 continue with increased intensity. The seminar brought together representatives from 49 European Olympic Committees, who were introduced to the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities of the host cities, Skopje and Kumanovo. This plenary session was of crucial importance for coordination and exchange of experiences, with the aim of ensuring the successful realization of the festival.

In anticipation of the biggest sporting event in the country to date, the organizing team is announcing another key milestone in the countdown to EYOF Skopje 2025. On Saturday, April 12, an event titled “100 Days to EYOF” will take place at East Gate Mall, aiming to raise public awareness and excitement for the upcoming festival, which will be held from July 20 to 26. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of sports and entertainment activities, including 3×3 basketball tournaments, slam dunk contests, long-range shooting challenges, and presentations related to Olympic values and sports.

Additionally, the event will have a humanitarian character, with a special focus on supporting families affected by the recent tragedy in Kocani. Through this initiative, the organizers wish to demonstrate the solidarity and unity of the sports community and the citizens of Macedonia. The funds raised will be allocated to assist these families and help alleviate the consequences of the incident.

The “100 Days to EYOF” event is an excellent opportunity for young people and all sports enthusiasts to get closer to the concept of the European Youth Olympic Festival, its significance, and its impact on youth sports in Europe. By participating in the planned activities, visitors will be able to experience the Olympic spirit and become part of the countdown to the festival’s

opening. This event is also a call for all interested individuals to join as volunteers or supporters of EYOF Skopje 2025, contributing to the successful organization and execution of the event.

Given the significance of EYOF Skopje 2025 as the largest sporting event in Macedonia’s history, such activities are essential for mobilizing the community, promoting sporting values, and creating the positive energy that will define the entire festival. The organizers call on all citizens, sports enthusiasts, and media representatives to attend the event at East Gate Mall on April 12 and join in the official countdown to this important sporting gathering.

This summer, more than 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025, scheduled 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, Skopje will host the majority of the competitions, while Kumanovo will welcome the cyclists and basketball players. The unique sports atmosphere will be further enriched by the gymnastics competitions, which will take place in Osijek, creating a truly Olympic ambiance across various locations.

Chefs de Mission Seminar Begins in Skopje as Part of Preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025

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.