Recently, a briefing meeting on the progress of preparations for the 33rd Winter Universiade Changchun (hereinafter referred to as the "Changchun Winter Universiade") was held. In an exclusive interview with Xinhua News Agency, Leonz Eder, President of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), stated that the Changchun Winter Universiade would probably be the best Games ever in the history of FISU Winter Games.

"This is my third visit to this wonderful city. The strong ice-and-snow atmosphere here makes me look forward even more to next year's Winter Universiade in Changchun," said Eder. Eder's connection with the city began in June 2025, when he first visited Changchun to inspect various ski resorts and sports facilities. In November of the same year, he announced in Changchun that the city had won the bid to host the 33rd Winter Universiade.

The Changchun Winter Universiade will take place from January 15 to January 25, 2027. Guided by the principles of economy, frugality, and sustainability, the Games will be hosted in two zones, with Changchun City as the main venue and Jilin City as the sub-venue. With less than one year to go until the opening ceremony, preparations are advancing at full speed. Well-organized preparations, such as for competitions, are underway: the public call for the slogan, emblem, and mascot has successfully concluded; progress is being made in market development, media and communications, opening ceremony planning, and volunteer recruitment; and support systems covering information technology, reception services, medical care, and security are also being steadily finalized.

Eder noted China's proven track record in delivering world-class sporting events. "Never before has a city faced such a tight preparation timeline as Changchun. Yet its Organizing Committee has put in tremendous effort, pushing forward tasks within a short period of time. This convinces us that we will probably have the best Games ever in the history of FISU Winter Games."

"I am deeply impressed by the organizing team—it is dynamic, passionate, and highly efficient. FISU will also dispatch a team of experts to assist the Organizing Committee, providing robust support and all-around guidance to ensure the success of the Games and to further strengthen cooperation," Eder added.

In Eder's view, Jilin Province possesses extensive experience in hosting winter sports events. "Jilin hosts many international sporting events every year. From previous Asian Winter Games to various FIS World Cup events, the province boasts rich ice-and-snow resources, a strong public base, standardized event operations, and extensive hosting experience. Many are eager to come to China for a hands-on experience of its ice-and-snow atmosphere. I believe the Winter Universiade will mark a new chapter in Jilin's event-hosting history and have a positive and far-reaching impact on Jilin, on China, and even on global sports," he said.

Eder emphasized that the Winter Universiade is not only a global sporting gala for university students, but also an international platform that brings together youthful energy and facilitates cultural exchange. In just over 300 days' time, this northern spring city is expected to welcome university student-athletes from more than 60 countries and regions, who will compete and exchange skills while experiencing China's distinctive ice-and-snow culture.

"I see the Winter Universiade as an important window opening to the world. These university students represent the future of the world. A major sporting event can ensure better popularity of a city, lead people into its customs and culture, and draw global attention," Eder said.

At present, all venues for the Winter Universiade are under renovation in accordance with international standards. "Changchun's sports venues and related infrastructure are already well developed, and some facilities are currently being refurbished. After the Games, these venues will provide more opportunities for teenagers to engage in sports, allowing the benefits of sport to reach a broader public," he noted.

Looking ahead, Eder expressed confidence that in just over 300 days, Changchun will welcome guests from around the world with a warm and passionate international sporting event—one that showcases the appeal of ice and snow sports, fosters friendship among young people worldwide, and facilitates mutual understanding among countries and regions.

Source: Xinhua News App  Editor: Liu Jiadi