Final of the Flame Relay in Duisburg: Symbol of Unity and Anticipation

Duisburg, which is one of the six host cities of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games, witnessed an impressive finale of the Flame Relay on May 28, 2025. Despite rainy weather, there was a positive and welcoming atmosphere among the many dedicated participants: students, scholars, associations, and volunteers actively took part in the Flame Relay, emphasizing the city's openness and dedication to be part of this international sports event.

Sporting Kick-Off at Steinbart Gymnasium

The day began with the Ergometer Rowing Cup in the auditorium of Steinbart Gymnasium, where four elite sports schools of the city competed against each other.

Afterwards, the Flame Relay commenced with around 120 participants – including Sascha Seifert, who is a water polo player for ASC Duisburg and ambassador for the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games – heading towards the city hall. There, the runners were welcomed by Mayor Sören Link, Niklas Börger, CEO of Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games GmbH, and Sina Diekmann, Chief Sports Officer of the Games.

A Proud Moment for Duisburg

Mayor Sören Link, visibly proud as he received the Host City plaque, was impressed by the city's community engagement: "As the competitions begin in a few weeks, I am certain: our city will once again demonstrate its love for sports, and the people here will welcome the athletes with open arms. The Flame Relay has already given us a taste and shown: Duisburg is ready for the Games!"

Niklas Börger, CEO of Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games GmbH, emphasized the significance of this moment regarding the overall preparations: "It is fantastic to see how dedicated the people of Duisburg have been to help to shape today. We are seven weeks away from the Games – despite some challenges, we look back on how much we have already accomplished. With such dedicated host cities like Duisburg, strong partners, and many outstanding individuals in the region, I am convinced: these will be fantastic games. The Rhine-Ruhr region is the perfect place to inspire athletes and fans from around the world."

Inclusion in Focus – Highlighting Parasports

Nele Moos, a silver medalist in long jump at the Paralympic Games in Paris and who is from Duisburg, also attended and supported the event. She particularly emphasized the importance of inclusive sports: "It is an important statement that 3x3 wheelchair basketball will be part of the FISU World University Games for the first time. For me as an athlete and having grown up in Duisburg, this is a special moment – and I am delighted that my hometown passionately supports this idea. Especially since there is still a lot work to do until this mindset is finally established."

Right in front of a sign stating that “Duisburg ist echt” the Flame Relay concluded with a group photo and interactions among participants, helpers, and guests – a poignant end to a special day focused on sports, unity and international exchange.

Photos: Helge Tscharn