Azerbaijan embarks on inspired run at Universiade

The 32nd World University Games has kicked off at the Schauinsland-Reisen Arena in Duisburg, Rhine-Ruhr, Germany.

During the event, North Rhine-Westphalia's Minister-President, Hendrik Wust, extended his best wishes to all the athletes.

FISU President Leonz Eder emphasized the significance of the Games.

The ceremony featured a lively parade of competitors, with gymnast Laman Alimuradova and taekwondo athlete Eltaj Gafarov serving as the flag bearers for the Azerbaijani team.

A message promoting peace was also conveyed during the proceedings.

The opening ceremony concluded with a cultural and artistic performance.

Azerbaijan's delegation consists of 71 athletes competing in 12 sports, including athletics, rowing, badminton, artistic gymnastics, judo, fencing, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, beach volleyball, archery, and swimming.

The 2025 Summer World University Games is an international multi-sport event that brings together university athletes from around the globe.

Unlike previous editions held in a single city, Rhine-Ruhr 2025 will be hosted across five cities: Bochum, Duisburg, Essen, Mulheim an der Ruhr, Hagen with Berlin added later as a partner location.

More than 8,500 athletes and officials from over 100 countries are expected to participate, competing in 18 sports and over 230 medal events.

In addition to the 15 core sports required by FISU (including athletics, swimming, and gymnastics), optional disciplines like 3x3 basketball, beach volleyball, and rowing will feature, along with a historic debut: 3x3 wheelchair basketball, marking the first time para-athletes are included in the FISU Summer Games.

The 2025 Games are held under the motto "A Summer With Distinction"(Sommer Cum Laude).

With a strong commitment to inclusivity, environmental consciousness, and youth empowerment, Rhine-Ruhr 2025 aims to set a new benchmark for what university sport can represent in the 21st century.