Since its inception in 2015, the European Games have established themselves as one of Europe’s premier multi-sport events. Owned, organised and regulated by the European Olympic Committees, each of the three previous editions has left a lasting mark on the sporting world. Now, the fourth edition is set to raise the bar even higher in İstanbul, where thousands of Europe’s top athletes will compete in one of the world’s most dynamic sporting destinations.

 

The İstanbul 2027 European Games will feature 26 sports and disciplines, including 22 Olympic sports. Rowing (beach sprint), weightlifting and squash will make their European Games debut, while gymnastics, volleyball and wrestling return to the programme after missing the Kraków-Małopolska 2023 edition. Beyond delivering a spectacular experience for athletes and fans alike, the Games will also play a key role on the road to the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028, offering qualification opportunities across numerous disciplines through both direct quota places and Olympic ranking systems.

 

As preparations enter their final year, the İstanbul 2027 European Games Organising Committee is welcoming National Olympic Committees from across Europe to the Chefs de Mission Seminar, taking place in İstanbul from 29 June to 2 July. The four-day programme brings together Chefs de Mission for venue tours, plenary sessions, meetings with the Games' Functional Areas and operational briefings, providing participating delegations with a comprehensive overview of the event's planning and operational readiness ahead of the Games.

 

An Impressive Symbol of İstanbul

Recently unveiled, the official logo of the İstanbul 2027 European Games draws inspiration from İstanbul's unique position on two continents, reflecting the city's role as a bridge between Asia and Europe. At its heart is the elegant silhouette of the Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge), one of İstanbul’s most iconic landmarks, symbolising the connection between the two continents. The logo also features tulip petal motifs representing Asia and Europe. Introduced to Anatolia by Turks from Central Asia before making their way to Europe, tulips have become a symbol of unity, diversity and cultural exchange, perfectly reflecting the spirit of the European Games.

 

On the other hand, rising above the bridge, the European Games torch embodies the passion, energy, and determination of sports. The logo’s vibrant colours both emphasise sustainability and celebrate the rich diversity of athletes, cultures, and sports disciplines that will unite in İstanbul in 2027. Together, all these elements form a powerful symbol of a city that brings continents, cultures, and people together under one roof through the unifying power of sports.

 

İstanbul: A Global Stage for Major Sporting Events

İstanbul is a premier destination offering its visitors an unparalleled experience at the crossroads of continents, combining a rich historical and architectural heritage with a vibrant cultural and artistic scene, world-class shopping, and MICHELIN-starred gastronomy. Welcoming millions of visitors each year, the city is a global hub for international congresses, destination weddings, concerts by world-renowned artists, and major sporting events. The European Games provide another opportunity to showcase İstanbul’s exceptional capabilities on the world stage.

 

At the heart of this prestigious event are İstanbul’s state-of-the-art sports venues and modern facilities, providing world-class conditions for athletes and setting new standards of excellence. Combined with renowned Turkish hospitality and the city’s unique atmosphere, these strengths ensure an unforgettable experience for both competitors and spectators.