Winter European Youth Olympic Festival Set for Brașov
The Romanian city of Brașov is preparing to host the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) for the second time in 2027. This marks a major milestone for the municipality, which previously welcomed young athletes from across Europe in 2013. Scheduled from February 14 to 21, 2027, the event will feature competitors aged 14 to 18. The organizing committee for the 18th Winter EYOF has now released the official sports lineup, consisting of nine different disciplines.
Sports Featured at the Festival
The program includes ice hockey, alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ski jumping, biathlon, short track speed skating, figure skating, and ski mountaineering. Ice hockey will feature both boys’ and girls’ tournaments, as well as a 3x3 format. Alpine skiing will involve slalom and giant slalom events, while snowboarding will cover slopestyle and snowboard cross. Cross-country skiing will include freestyle and classical techniques, and biathlon will offer sprint and individual races.
Ukraine’s national team delivered an impressive performance at the previous festival in Bakuriani 2025, securing five medals: three gold and two bronze. However, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Ukrainian squad failed to win any medals, although their athletes placed within the top ten in their respective disciplines eight times.
The competitions in Brașov promise to serve as a critical stepping stone for young athletes, highlighting their achievements on the global stage. The festival is expected to boost the growth of winter sports in Ukraine and beyond, while giving emerging talents a platform to showcase their skills at the European level.
Brașov’s hosting of the Winter EYOF underscores the significance of youth sports internationally and provides a valuable opportunity for new talents to display their abilities.
The past success of Ukrainian athletes at the EYOF reflects the country’s potential in winter sports, despite challenges faced at the Olympic Games. This opens the door for further development and preparation of young competitors for future international events.
The upcoming European Games in Istanbul will serve as a vital qualifier for the 2028 Olympics, much like the Winter EYOF in Brașov aims to provide young athletes with a stage to excel. Both events not only highlight the importance of youth sports but also play a significant role in shaping future Olympic hopefuls, fostering international competition and growth in various disciplines.