Delegations from 32 European universities have arrived in Salerno ahead of the European University Games (EUG), with badminton and the debut of padel drawing significant attention as the event prepares to showcase both athletic competition and regional tourism. The city, known for its coastal vistas and historic landmarks, is hosting the 2024 edition of the biennial tournament, which will feature over 4,000 student-athletes across 16 sports.
The EUG Arrives in Salerno: A New Era for University Sports
The European University Games, organized by the European University Sports Association (FESU), began its five-day run on June 25, 2024, with the arrival of delegations from across the continent. Salerno, a city in southern Italy, marks the first time the event has been held in the region, according to FESU officials. “This is a historic moment for both the EUG and the Campania region,” said FESU Secretary General Maria Luisa Bernardi in a press conference. “The combination of elite university competition and local cultural immersion creates a unique platform for young athletes.”
The tournament, which runs through June 30, includes traditional sports like athletics, swimming, and basketball, alongside newer additions such as padel. The inclusion of padel, a racquet sport that originated in Argentina and has gained popularity in Europe, represents a strategic effort to attract younger audiences. “Padel’s fast-paced, social nature aligns with the EUG’s mission to blend sport with student life,” said FESU spokesperson Luca Moretti.
Badminton and Padel: Dual Highlights of the Games
Badminton has been a staple of the EUG since its inception in 1999, but the 2024 edition has seen an uptick in participation, with 120 athletes competing across singles and doubles events. The sport’s inclusion in the Paris 2024 Olympics has likely contributed to its growing appeal among university teams. “We’ve seen a 20% increase in registrations compared to the 2022 games,” said Badminton Europe Confederation representative Elena Varga.
The debut of padel, however, has generated the most buzz. The sport, played on a tennis-like court with a paddle and a ball, has seen explosive growth in countries like Spain, Italy, and Germany. Salerno’s PalaMangano complex, a newly renovated venue, is hosting padel matches, with organizers reporting over 10,000 tickets sold for the opening week. “Padel is a natural fit for the EUG,” said Salerno Mayor Vincenzo De Luca. “It’s accessible, fun, and draws large crowds—perfect for promoting our city.”
Turism and Economic Impact: A Win for Salerno
The EUG’s arrival has already boosted local tourism, with hotels reporting 85% occupancy and restaurants experiencing a 40% increase in visitors. The city’s tourism board, Salerno Turismo, estimates the event will contribute €15 million to the local economy. “This isn’t just about sports—it’s about putting Salerno on the map,” said board director Giuseppe Romano. “We’re leveraging the games to highlight our UNESCO-listed historic center, the Amalfi Coast, and our culinary traditions.”
Local businesses have also embraced the event. The Piazza Matteotti, a central square, has been transformed into a “University Games Village,” featuring food stalls, cultural exhibits, and interactive sports zones. “It’s a chance for residents to connect with students from around Europe,” said Salerno native Anna Ricci. “The energy here is incredible.”
Verified Attendance and Competition Highlights
Official attendance figures for the opening days of the EUG stand at 18,500, according to FESU. The highest turnout was recorded during the men’s badminton final on June 27, which drew 5,200 spectators. Padel matches have also been well-attended, with the women’s doubles semifinals drawing 3,800 fans. “The enthusiasm is contagious,” said FESU volunteer Luca Bianchi. “It’s inspiring to see so many people supporting these young athletes.”
Competitive highlights include the men’s 100-meter dash, won by Germany’s Johannes Müller in 10.32 seconds, and the women’s 4×100 relay, where Italy’s team set a new EUG record of 43.15 seconds. In padel, Spain’s Universidad de Sevilla took the men’s doubles title, while the Czech Republic’s Charles University claimed the women’s crown.
What’s Next for the EUG and Salerno?
The tournament will conclude with the closing ceremony on June 30, followed by the announcement of the 2026 EUG host city. Salerno’s success has already sparked discussions about future bids, with Italian officials expressing interest in hosting the event again. “This has been a resounding success,” said Italian Sports Minister Ornella Fazzini. “We’re already considering how to build on this momentum.”
 "What’s Next for the EUG and Salerno?")
For now, the focus remains on the remaining competitions, including the men’s and women’s basketball finals and the padel mixed doubles. Fans can follow live updates on the FESU website and the official EUG app. As the games continue, Salerno’s blend of sport, culture, and hospitality is proving to be a winning formula.
How to Follow the EUG
Live scores, schedules, and athlete profiles are available on the FESU website. The official EUG app, launched in May 2024, offers real-time updates and interactive maps of Salerno’s event venues. For those unable to attend, the games will be broadcast on Eurosport and the FESU YouTube channel.
As the EUG enters its final days, the legacy of the event extends beyond the medal count. For Salerno, it’s a chance to showcase its potential as a global sports destination. For the athletes, it’s a platform to compete, connect, and create memories. And for fans, it’s a celebration of university sports at its finest.
