The FISU World University Games encompass a variety of disciplines, including both summer and winter sports. In the 2025 summer edition, there will be competitions in traditional sports such as athletics, swimming, gymnastics and basketball, but sports such as judo, fencing and archery are also part of the program. In total, over 10,000 athletes are expected to compete in 18 different disciplines and fight for gold, silver and bronze.
The Universiade has existed since 1959 and has since developed into one of the largest international multi-sport events in which young athletes from universities around the world take part. The aim of the event is not only to promote top sporting performance, but also to strengthen intercultural exchange and the network of young academics. In addition to sport, the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games will also feature a large program of events. For 12 days, an extensive arts and culture program will turn the cities in the Rhine-Ruhr region into the world's largest playing field. In addition to central themes such as internationality, participation, sustainability and transformation, local and international artists will come together to create a playful approach to art and culture for everyone in public spaces. The side program offers space for encounters and contacts as well as a presentation platform for various local organizations.