On the first day of the meeting, the Executive Committee approved key decisions in preparation for its submission to the FISU Extraordinary General Assembly in January, ahead of the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade.
The International University Sports Federation Executive Committee held its second in-person meeting of the year in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where a wide range of topics were discussed, including organisational and governance matters, status changes, sport, and development initiatives.
FISU’s organisational evolution towards 2031
The meeting opened with the secretariat report by FISU Secretary General and CEO, Matthias Remund.
In order to equip FISU properly to deliver the 2031 strategy objectives, two departments have been created: Communication and Sustainability & FISU Master whose work as well as the strong interconnection between all departments is key to FISU’s development and reach.
Building on achievements, structuring the future
FISU Secretary General Matthias Remund gave his report on the FISU Global Strategy 2027.
This is just a paper”, smiled FISU President Leonz Eder. “But it summarises the great things we have achieved with the Continental and National University Sports Federations. I would like to personally thank all of you who have helped achieve these goals. This is a great example of successful teamwork!”
Building on the achievements of FISU Strategy 2027, the EC members engaged in discussions to shape the 2031 vision, carefully analysed the consultation results, incorporated key feedback, and finalised the strategy for approval at the General Assembly. The ambition of this new strategy is to present a bold and focused plan that will ensure the continued growth and success of world university sport.
FISU Statutes & governance improvements
Following in-depth discussions, the Executive Committee reviewed the consultation on the FISU Statutes and unanimously approved the proposal for submission to the General Assembly.
“We want to remain flexible, change and adapt when it is needed”, summarised Matthias Remund. “The frames are clear and we are working to have a modern constitution for our movement. This will be the foundation for our regulations that will allow us to make great achievements”.
Ensuring global participation and inclusivity
For the first time in history, the EC adopted the Step-Up Programme’s eligibility and financial support plans for the upcoming Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade providing opportunities for NUSFs to send student-athletes to FISU events, exchange experiences, and build capacity.
Positive momentum in Championships and sport development
Preparations for the next championship season are progressing strongly, with 15 bids submitted across 23 sports. The Executive Committee approved 10 bids outright and a further two subject to conditions.
| Attribution without restrictions (10) | Attribution subject to conditions (2) | ||
| Sport | Country | Sport | Country |
| Cross Country | Hungary | Powerlifting | Albania |
| Futsal | Costa Rica | Beach Sports | Italy |
| Handball | Portugal | | |
| Padel | Portugal | | |
| Rowing | Croatia | | |
| Rugby Sevens | Spain | | |
| Shooting Sport | Poland | | |
| Canoe | Albania | | |
| Weightlifting | Albania | | |
| Combat Sports | Thailand | | |
In a significant shift, football will transition from the FISU University World Cup to the FISU World University Championship format from 2028. Therefore, there will be no football world cup in 2027 but a championship in China in 2028, as per agreement with FOCUSS.
Anti-Doping rules
The Executive Committee also approved the adoption of the FISU Anti-Doping Rules 2027, which will come into effect on 1 January 2027. Key updates include enhanced accountability for athlete support personnel and the delegation of Therapeutic Use Exemptions management to the International Testing Agency (ITA).
FISU Executive Committee Meeting in Ulaanbaatar will continue tomorrow.
Related News
FISU reinforces its commitment to the World University Sports Movement
In Ulaanbaatar, FISU celebrates the past and shapes the future
Japan at the top of the cheerleading pyramid!
