Istanbul to Host 2027 European Games, Featuring 26 Sports and Olympic Qualification

2027 European Games Set for Istanbul

According to НОК: The European Olympic Committees has finalized the program for the 2027 European Games, scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, from June 16 to 27. This major multi-sport event will serve as a direct qualifier for European athletes seeking a spot at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Athletes will earn their places through allocated quotas and ranking points earned at the Games.

Competition Schedule and Sports

The competition schedule will feature 26 sports, 22 of which are on the Olympic program. The event will introduce several new disciplines to the European Games for the first time, including:

• Coastal Rowing
• Weightlifting
• Squash

Notably, squash will also be making its Olympic debut in 2028. Furthermore, several sports are returning to the program after being absent from the 2023 Games in Krakow, such as gymnastics, volleyball, and wrestling.

Historically, Team Ukraine has performed strongly at the European Games, having won a total of 139 medals across all editions: 45 gold, 43 silver, and 51 bronze. This track record highlights the nation's consistent strength in European sports.

The 2027 European Games in Istanbul represent a critical milestone for athletes on the road to the Los Angeles Olympics. By offering direct qualification opportunities, the event will be a primary focus for many top competitors. The inclusion of new sports like squash and the return of fan favorites such as gymnastics are expected to broaden the event's appeal and heighten the level of competition for spectators.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics, the early kickoff of the football tournament across multiple U.S. cities highlights the growing anticipation for international competitions. The integration of such events not only enhances the Olympic experience but also sets the stage for athletes aiming to qualify through the 2027 European Games in Istanbul.