FISU World University Championship in Cross-Country 2026

President’s Welcome Message

Dear student-athletes, dear friends,

I am delighted to welcome you to Cassino, for the 2026 World University Championship Cross Country.

I would like to address you first, dear student-athletes, who are and who always be the beating heart of FISU. 

Competing at the World University Championships is a career highlight for many of you. For others, it is a step up to the next level of performance. What you all have in common is your love of sport, your commitment, your fair play and your respect. You come together as rivals, from different places and different backgrounds, but you will almost certainly leave as friends.

Despite the challenging times we are all facing, you remind us of the special power of young people to reassure us that a better world is possible. You remind us of the need to prioritise sport, sustainability, inclusivity and healthy social exchange. FISU firmly believes that university athletes are the role models and future leaders the world needs.

Over the following [number of event days] days, you will compete alongside some of the best student-athletes on the planet. The FISU World University Championships demand skill, athleticism, and single-minded determination to do your best. But beyond the competition, FISU urges you to have fun. May you return home with memories that will last a lifetime!

None of FISU’s events would be possible without the generosity of our hosts. I want to extend our sincere gratitude to the National University Sports Federation of Italy, the organisers for their dedication and the volunteers for their passion.

FISU is also grateful for the ongoing support of the International Sports Federations. Together, we aim to provide the highest level of technical excellence on and off the field of play.

I am confident that the 2026 FISU World University Championship Cross Country in Cassino will give you every opportunity to shine, to interact and to grow as people.

I wish you the best of luck!

Leonz Eder
FISU President

OC President’s Welcome Message

On behalf of the Organizing Committee, it is my great pleasure to welcome all athletes, coaches, and officials to the 24^th World University Championship Cross Country.

We are thrilled to host this prestigious event in our beautiful city, where sport, culture, and history come together. This championship is not only a test of endurance and skill but also a celebration of international friendship, teamwork, and the spirit of university sport.

To all our athletes: we wish you inspiring races, personal achievements, and unforgettable experiences. May this championship be a moment of challenge, growth, and joy for each of you.

Thank you for being here and for contributing to the spirit of excellence and camaraderie that defines the World University Championships. We look forward to witnessing outstanding performances and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Welcome, and let the races begin!

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