The 2025 Rin-Ruhr FISU World University Games will lead the way towards sustainability through sports. Documents have been developed that set a new benchmark for the World University Games, which will take place from July 16 to 27, 2025, with standards for international university sports. Titled “Zoom In and Zoom Out: The Sustainability and Legacy Approach,” the documents detail the current state of the Organizing Committee’s sustainable management efforts.

The documents address complex issues and detail the measures already being implemented for the World University Games and how they affect the SDGs. They also delve into the values of respect, fair play, and commitment.

Professor Holger Preuss, the supervisor of Legacy and Sustainability for the Games, commented that “the focus of the strategy for the FISU Games is to reduce environmental impact, strengthen the regional economy, and maximize social projects.”

The article discusses two perspectives: “zoom in” examines the sustainability strategy, while the “zoom out” perspective explains the legacy plan, according to trend researcher Anja Kirig.

“This pre-Games document on Sustainability and Legacy is a milestone in our commitment and ambition to leave a positive impact on our environment and society through the Games,” commented Niklas Borger, executive director of the 2025 FISU Games. FISU President Leonz Eder noted that “it is evident that the Organizing Committee has focused primarily on sustainability and legacy since the conceptualization of the FISU Games.”

Moreover, it concludes by saying that “it is fantastic to see this come to life, covering so many aspects of sustainability. We are seeing more and more hosts of our events integrate these concepts… we are confident that Rin-Ruhr will host an exceptional event in 2025.”