Bjelovar to host 2027 European Junior Swimming Championships

Bjelovar, Croatia, has been selected to host the 2027 European Junior Swimming Championships, a significant achievement for the city and Croatian sports. The European Aquatics Federation announced the decision on Sunday, following a presentation of Croatia's bid.

Bjelovar Mayor Dario Hrebak presented the candidacy, supported by Josip Varvodić, president of the Croatian Olympic Committee and Croatian Swimming Federation. This marks Croatia's opportunity to organize one of the most important European swimming competitions for young athletes.

The championships will take place at the new Wellovar swimming complex, nearing completion and scheduled to open on September 29, coinciding with the Day of the City of Bjelovar and the Day of Bjelovar Defenders. The facility is designed to host major international sporting events.

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This is an extremely important day for Croatian swimming and Croatian sports. European Aquatics has recognized the quality of the project that the City of Bjelovar, the Croatian Swimming Federation, and all partners have jointly prepared. I am convinced that Bjelovar will organize the championship at the highest level and be an excellent host for the best young swimmers.

Varvodić highlighted the award as a major recognition for Croatian swimming and sports, stating, "European Aquatics has recognized the quality of the project jointly prepared by the City of Bjelovar, the Croatian Swimming Federation, and all partners." He expressed confidence that Bjelovar will provide an excellent venue for the young athletes.

Mayor Hrebak called the decision a "historic moment" for Bjelovar, emphasizing the trust placed in the city by European Aquatics. He noted that hosting the event will attract thousands of visitors, offer international promotion, and create new economic opportunities. Organizational preparations for the championship will continue until the summer of 2027.

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We have received great trust from European Aquatics, and this is recognition for everyone who has believed in sports development and investment in top infrastructure in recent years. Wellovar was not built only for the needs of our citizens but also with the vision of bringing major international sports events to Bjelovar.