Opening of the III European Games in Krakow and Malopolska 2023 – A spectacle of sport and culture

Wisla Stadium in Krakow becomes the center of the biggest sports emotions in Europe

Krakow, June 21, 2023 - After four years of intensive preparations, today Krakow and Malopolska will become the arena for the best athletes from across the continent at the opening of the III European Games. The opening ceremony, which will start at 8.30 pm at the renovated Wisla Stadium, will capture the attention of Europe and the world, combining sports and cultural elements in an unforgettable show.

European sport meets in Krakow and Malopolska

During the Games, which will last until July 2, athletes from 48 countries will compete in 29 disciplines. The entire event will be broadcast on television to 50 countries, allowing viewers around the world to experience this exciting event. The competitors will compete not only in Krakow but also in 12 other cities in Malopolska.

Spyros Capralos, President of the Association of European Olympic Committees, during the main conference before the start of the games, highlighted Poland's role in the development of European sport and thanked the Polish authorities for their commitment to organizing the games. As he said, thanks to good cooperation, the Games have gained prestige.

Investment in the future of sport and the region

The preparations for the Games were associated with huge investments in sports infrastructure in the region. The organizational costs of the games amounted to PLN 466 million, of which the government contributed PLN 266 million, and Krakow and Malopolska allocated PLN 100 million each. The government allocated an additional PLN 350 million for infrastructure investments and PLN 150 million for sports projects.

Opening Ceremony – a spectacle of sport and culture

The opening ceremony, which will take place at the Wisla Stadium, is to be a unique combination of sport and artistic spectacle. The event will include a march of representatives of all 48 teams participating in the competitions, the lighting of the torch with the Flame of Peace, and performances by music stars.

In the music part, Tribbs, known for his pop hits, and the band Zakopower, presenting Polish music of various genres, will perform.

The Flame of Peace, lit in Rome, after traveling all over Poland, arrived in Krakow. The lighting of the torch with this fire will be the culmination of the opening ceremony.

Emotions are coming

Marcin Nowak, President of the European Games 2023 Company, emphasized that the lighting of the Flame of Peace is a moment that Poles will not forget for many years. "This is the start of a two-week sports festival that will last until July 2. We want it to be an event remembered for many years by all participants and spectators," said Nowak.

During the European Games 2023, athletes will compete for podium places, and spectators will be able to support their favorites, enjoying the emotions that sport always delivers. Krakow and Malopolska, the heart of European sport, are ready to start this great event.