The countdown to the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade has entered its final 100 days, with the lighting of the Flame of Knowledge in Turin, Italy, marking a major milestone ahead of the global university sports competition scheduled for 15 to 25 January 2027 in Changchun, China.

According to a press release issued by the International University Sports Federation (FISU) on 8 October 2026, approximately 3,000 participants from more than 50 countries and regions are expected to compete across 12 sports during the 2027 edition. Preparations are underway in Changchun as the host city prepares to welcome student athletes from across the world.

Flame Lighting Connects Turin and Changchun

The Flame of Knowledge was lit in Turin, the city where the Universiade originated, during a ceremony attended by more than 70 Chinese representatives, including Changchun Mayor Gu Gang.

Describing the ceremony as the beginning of the event, Mayor Gu said carrying the flame back to China symbolises the country's welcome to student athletes from around the world. He also referred to Changchun as the "capital of powder snow".

FISU President Leonz Eder highlighted the connection between Turin, the birthplace of the Universiade, and Changchun, the next host city. He said the flame would travel to China and then around the country's universities, conveying the shared values of peace, friendship and inclusion.

Following the lighting ceremony, the flame began its journey from Via Verdi, passing the Egyptian Museum and the Murazzi of the Po before reaching Castello del Valentino, the historic headquarters of the Polytechnic University of Turin.

The flame bearers included University of Turin Rector Cristina Prandi, Polytechnic University of Turin Vice Rector Elena Maria Baralis, FISU President Leonz Eder, and Italian and Chinese student athletes.

Rector Prandi described hosting the ceremony at the university as an honour, emphasising the relationship between sport and education. She expressed the hope that participating athletes would experience how sporting and academic excellence can develop together.

Twelve Sports and an International Gathering

From 15 to 25 January 2027, student athletes from more than 50 countries and all five continents will gather in Changchun for the Winter Universiade. Participants are expected to experience the region's winter sports facilities, including the Jingyuetan, Songhua and Beidahu ski resorts, alongside cultural and educational activities showcasing northern China.

The competition will also feature several notable participation and inclusion highlights. Student athletes from Russia will be able to compete as neutral athletes, while para alpine skiing and para cross country skiing will form part of the programme, with visually impaired skiers competing alongside their teammates.

The programme also includes activities reflecting the host city's winter environment. Participants from the Southern Hemisphere will run in Changchun Sculpture Park, while Iran will enter a women's team in the ice hockey tournament.

These elements form part of the international sporting gathering, bringing together athletes from different regions and backgrounds through university sport.

University Sport Beyond Competition

The Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade is expected to create opportunities for sporting competition, cultural exchange and connections among participating student athletes, universities and host communities.

FISU has stated that it looks forward to the event fostering lasting connections and positive experiences for participants, local communities and the wider global audience.

Established in 1949, FISU supports university sport through sporting events, educational initiatives and wellbeing programmes. Working with its members and continental organisations, the Federation promotes academic and athletic balance, respect, excellence, inclusion and cultural exchange.

As the Flame of Knowledge travels to China and onward through its universities, it carries a message that extends beyond the competition itself: university sport can bring education, international cooperation and shared values together.

With less than 100 days remaining before the opening of the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade, attention now turns to the final preparations for welcoming thousands of participants to China in January.

Event details

·        Event: Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade

·        Dates: 15 to 25 January 2027

·        Host city: Changchun, China

·        Expected participation: Approximately 3,000 participants

·        International representation: More than 50 countries and regions

·        Sports: 12

·        Organiser: International University Sports Federation (FISU)

Media and further information

FISU Media: media@fisu.net
Communications Operations Senior Manager, Thérèse Courvoisier: t.courvoisier@fisu.net

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