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Europe Meets on the Sand: European Beach Handball Championship 2025 Kicks Off in Alanya

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in HBL, EOC, European Games, GENDER, Istambul 2027, M, Olympic Movement, Summer Sports, TUR, W. No Comments on Europe Meets on the Sand: European Beach Handball Championship 2025 Kicks Off in Alanya

Alanya (Türkiye), 7 July 2025 – The Turkish coastal city of Alanya is set to host one of this summer’s most eagerly awaited European sporting events: the 2025 European Beach Handball Championship, where the continent’s top national teams will compete for the senior men’s and women’s titles.

Organised by the European Handball Federation (EHF), the tournament will take place from 8 to 13 July at the Alanya International Beach Sports Centre, located on the iconic Oba Beach. The venue has been specially prepared to welcome over 30 national delegations and hundreds of athletes.

Over the course of six days, 32 teams (16 women’s and 16 men’s) will battle it out in a format that includes a preliminary group stage, a main round and knockout matches, culminating in the finals on Sunday 13 July.

🌍 Continental Representation and Ambitions

This championship brings together the elite of European beach handball, with teams from over 20 countries, including traditional powerhouses such as Spain, Germany, France, Croatia, Hungary, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Norway and Sweden. Emerging nations such as Türkiye, Ukraine, Bulgaria and the Netherlands will also be competing, many of whom have shown marked progress in recent years.

In the women’s competition, the spotlight will be on Spain, three-time European champions (2002, 2006, 2017), who arrive in Alanya with an experienced and competitive squad. Denmark, the defending champions, and strong sides like Croatia and Germany are also tipped to reach the final stages.

In the men’s tournament, Croatia come in as firm favourites, with four European titles to their name (2009, 2011, 2013, 2015). However, the challenge will be stiff, with Germany, Poland and France fielding young, athletic squads. Italy and Hungary have also shown strong form in recent international competitions and could well cause an upset.

🏟️ Venue and Logistics

Matches will be held on six purpose-built sand courts along Alanya’s Mediterranean coastline. The sporting complex has been adapted to accommodate athletes, coaching staff and support teams, in what is expected to be one of the most demanding events of the beach handball season.

In addition to the competition areas, the site offers rest zones, medical facilities, hydration points, physiotherapy centres and shared spaces for athletes. The logistical operation is being coordinated jointly by the EHF and Turkish sports authorities, with a focus on efficiency and athlete well-being.

🔄 Competition Format

The championship kicks off on 8 July with the preliminary group stage (four groups of four teams per category). The top two from each group advance to the main round, while third and fourth-placed teams move into placement rounds.

From 12 July, the tournament will enter the quarter-finals, followed by the semi-finals and finals, which will be held on Sunday 13 July.

Final rankings will play an important role in the European seedings and qualification routes for future world and intercontinental tournaments.

🥇 More Than Just a Title

This championship is not only a showcase for current talent, but also a strategic platform for the growth of beach handball in Europe. Increasingly incorporated into youth programmes and national development pathways, the discipline is on the rise across the continent.

Alanya’s selection as host city reflects its growing reputation as a hub for international beach sports. With its reliable climate, modern infrastructure and spectacular coastal setting, the city offers ideal conditions for elite-level competition.

The senior event also follows on directly from the successful Under-17 European Championship, held in the same venue from 3 to 6 July, where Spain and Germany claimed titles in the women’s and men’s categories, respectively. This continuity strengthens Alanya’s position as Europe’s beach handball capital this summer.

📌 Key Dates – EHF Beach Handball EURO 2025

DateCompetition Stage
8 JulyOpening matches – Group stage begins
9–10 JulyGroup stage continues and Main Round
11 JulyFinal day of Main Round
12 JulyQuarter-finals and Semi-finals
13 JulyFinals and Medal Ceremonies

🏐 A Growing Discipline

With fast-paced rules, high-intensity action and a distinctive atmosphere, beach handball continues to carve out its place in Europe’s summer sporting calendar. The 2025 European Championship promises not only top-level competition but also a celebration of the sport’s growing appeal.

The EHF has invested considerable effort in ensuring the success of this edition, which is set to be a milestone for the discipline. With increased participation, organisational backing and the support of local authorities, the tournament in Alanya aims to elevate beach handball to new heights across the continent.

European Athletics Team Championships 2025: Italy reigns in Madrid as Belgium and Iceland lead the charge in Maribor

European Athletics Team Championships 2025: Italy reigns in Madrid as Belgium and Iceland lead the charge in Maribor

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, ATH, BEL, European Games, ISL, ITA, Summer Sports. No Comments on European Athletics Team Championships 2025: Italy reigns in Madrid as Belgium and Iceland lead the charge in Maribor

Across six action-packed days and two host cities, the 2025 European Athletics Team Championships (ETCH)delivered an electrifying showcase of team spirit, national pride, and elite performances. With the First Division held in Madrid, and both the Second and Third Divisions hosted simultaneously in Maribor, Slovenia, this year’s edition reflected the full scope of European athletics — from powerhouse nations to rising federations making their mark.

🥇 FIRST DIVISION – MADRID: ITALY DEFENDS ITS TITLE IN STYLE

At Madrid’s Estadio Vallehermoso, 16 top-tier national teams battled it out from 26–29 June. Italy retained its crown with a commanding 431.5 points, outpacing Poland (405.5) and Germany (397) in a high-calibre field.

The four-day meet featured standout performances:

  • Femke Bol (Netherlands) smashed the championship record in the women’s 400m with a lightning-fast 49.48 seconds.
  • Miltiadis Tentoglou (Greece) soared to a world-leading 8.46m in the men’s long jump.
  • Young Dutch star Niels Laros took a sensational win in the men’s 5000m, confirming his rise as one of Europe’s brightest distance talents.
  • Poland capped off the event by winning a thrilling mixed 4x400m relay.

At the opposite end of the table, Ukraine, Finland, Lithuania were relegated to the Second Division for 2027, highlighting the unforgiving nature of this fiercely contested format.

(European Athletics)

(European Athletics)

🥈 SECOND DIVISION – MARIBOR: BELGIUM, NORWAY AND SLOVENIA PROMOTED

From 28–29 June, the Poljane Stadium in Maribor hosted a gripping battle for promotion. Belgium emerged victorious with 249.5 points, narrowly ahead of Norway (242) and host nation Slovenia (219.5). All three earned promotion to the top tier in 2027.

Middle-distance events and strong showings in the relays proved decisive for the leading teams. Meanwhile, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Latvia fell to the Third Division after multiple events.

🥉 THIRD DIVISION – MARIBOR: ICELAND LEAD THE WAY IN SURPRISE ASCENT

The Third Division, also staged at Maribor’s Poljane Stadium (24–25 June), featured 15 national teams vying for just three promotion spots. Iceland delivered a standout collective performance, topping the table with 212.5 points. They were joined in promotion by Luxembourg and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Star of the weekend was Gina McNamara (Iceland), who claimed gold in both the women’s 800m and 1500m, while also scoring valuable points in the long jump. Malta achieved a national record in the mixed 4x400m relay and secured a historic fifth-place finish overall — a major milestone for the island nation’s athletics programme.

🔄 PROMOTION AND RELEGATION – EUROPE’S ATHLETIC LANDSCAPE SHIFTS

🏆 Division🟢 Promoted🔴 Relegated
First Division—Ukraine, Finland, Lithuania
Second DivisionBelgium, Norway, SloveniaBulgaria, Cyprus, Latvia
Third DivisionIceland, Luxembourg, Bosnia & Herzegovina—

🌍 TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS CONFIRM THEIR PLACE IN THE ATHLETICS CALENDAR

The 2025 edition once again highlighted the value of a team-based format in an increasingly individual-focused sport. National depth, tactical balance, and unity across disciplines made the difference — as much as any single standout athlete.

From record-breaking brilliance in Madrid to breakthrough moments in Maribor, the ETCH reaffirmed itself as a unique and vital fixture in the European athletics calendar. With new faces rising and others regrouping, the road to 2027 promises even fiercer battles — and fresh stories to be written.

What Is Olympic Day? The Day Sport Moves the World

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, EYOF, GSSE, Olympic Movement, Skopje 2025, Sports, Summer Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on What Is Olympic Day? The Day Sport Moves the World

Every year on 23rd June, Olympic Day is celebrated across the globe — and it goes far beyond sport. This day invites us to get active, connect with others, and live by the values that make the Olympic Games so unique: respect, friendship, and excellence.

But… do you really know what this day means and why it matters? Let us explain.

📅 What Is Olympic Day and Why Is It Celebrated?

Olympic Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern Olympic Games, first held in 1896 thanks to the vision of French educator Pierre de Coubertin. But it wasn’t until 1948 that the International Olympic Committee proposed creating a special day to celebrate Olympism — a day where everyone, no matter their age or background, could be part of the Olympic spirit.

Since then, more than 150 countries have joined the celebration each year, organising sporting events, cultural activities, educational workshops and fun runs known as “Olympic Day Runs”, open to the public.

🏃‍♀️🏀 More Than Sport: Move Your Body, Mind and Heart

Olympic Day is built on three key pillars that make it meaningful and accessible to all:

  • Move 🏃‍♂️
    Walk, run, swim, dance, play… however you like to move, get your body going. Being active improves your health, boosts your mood, and builds confidence.
  • Learn 📚
    Explore Olympic history, learn about inspiring athletes, and discover how sport unites cultures and breaks down barriers. Learning is part of the Olympic journey.
  • Discover 🧩
    Ever tried a new sport? Olympic Day is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and find something that excites you.

🎯 These three pillars are the foundation of the official Olympic Day motto: “Move, Learn, Discover.”

🌟 Olympic Values: A Guide for Life

Beyond medals and podiums, Olympic Day is about remembering the values that inspire athletes all over the world:

  • Friendship: Connecting with others through mutual respect and teamwork.
  • Respect: For yourself, for others, and for the environment.
  • Excellence: Giving your personal best — not just to win, but to grow.

These values go beyond sport. They can help us become better people at school, at home, and in our communities.

🎤 What Athletes Say

For many Olympians, Olympic Day has special meaning. Some remember it as the day they first discovered the joy of sport.

🗣️ “Olympic Day showed me that sport is for everyone — not just the best. We all have a place,” said Yulimar Rojas, Olympic champion.

🗣️ “When you run alongside others without worrying about who wins, you realise sport is bigger than competition,” shared Eliud Kipchoge, one of the greatest marathon runners in history.

🙌 How Can You Take Part?

The best part? Anyone can join Olympic Day, regardless of age, experience or fitness level. Here are a few simple ways to get involved:

  • 🚴‍♀️ Organise a mini Olympic Day run in your school, park or neighbourhood.
  • 🧠 Research Olympic athletes from your country and create a poster or presentation.
  • 🏸 Try out a new sport — even just for fun.
  • 📱 Join the online challenge: post a video of yourself moving or share your story using the hashtag #OlympicDay.
  • 🎨 Create artwork, music or dance inspired by Olympic values.
  • 💬 Invite a local athlete to speak at your school or youth centre.

🌈 It’s not about how big the event is — what matters most is your willingness to take part and connect with others through sport

Countdown to the Start of the Games

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in Andorra 2025, EOC, GSSE, Summer Sports. No Comments on Countdown to the Start of the Games

Just two weeks to go until the Games of the Small States of Europe Andorra 2025 kick off, and you can already feel the buzz in the air. Banners are going up on lampposts and balconies, and sports venues are being fine-tuned in every detail. With the clock ticking down, we already know the key elements that will give this edition its personality: the mascot, the torch, and the cauldron have all been unveiled.

Now, all eyes are on the final team lists. National squads are putting the finishing touches on preparations, some have already announced preliminary line-ups, and the confirmed athletes for events like athletics, swimming, judo or cycling should be announced any day now. For many of these competitors, the Games are a major milestone—a chance to represent their country in an event that blends sport, culture and connection.

Valiret, the official mascot

Valiret will be the friendly face of the Games. He’s a tamarro—a mythical forest creature from the Pyrenees—given a modern and approachable look. The name was chosen through a public vote and reflects Andorra’s close link to nature, especially its rivers, which bring life and energy to the country. Valiret also nods to the past, reviving the spirit of the 1991 Games—the last time Andorra hosted the event.

A torch inspired by mountains, unity and tradition

The official torch is packed with symbolism. Designed by creative studio Aymara, its shape mimics the silhouette of Comapedrosa, Andorra’s highest peak. Engraved at the base are the names of the country’s seven parishes, a reminder of unity and shared effort. The torch is surrounded by seven metallic rings, representing each parish. Built from stainless steel, the design is clean and sturdy, and the flame inside stands for the Olympic spirit—but also the light that guides those hiking through the mountains. The torch is set to tour all seven parishes before arriving at the National Stadium for the opening ceremony.

The cauldron – still under wraps

The cauldron design is still a secret, but we know it’s the work of Andorran sculptor Toni Cruz. Built from iron, it ties into the country’s mining heritage and aims to represent collective effort, resilience and support. Cruz wants this piece to honour not just athletes, but also the coaches, families, medical staff and volunteers who’ve helped make the journey possible. The big reveal will come on the opening night—when the torch flame arrives and the cauldron is lit to officially launch the Games.

Final touches and growing excitement

As the start date gets closer, preparations are shifting into high gear. Volunteers are in training, delegations are beginning to arrive, and training sessions are picking up pace. Everything needs to be ready—from venue signage to transport schedules between the different sites. For many in Andorra, this is a chance to show the world their warm welcome, organisational skill and love of sport.

Andorra 2025 is shaping up to be a close-knit edition where it’s not just about winning, but also about sharing. With almost everything in place, all that’s left is to welcome the teams, confirm the final names, and get things underway.

Raffaeli Triumphs at European Cup in Baku

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In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Italy’s Sofia Raffaeli clinched the Cross Battle title at the European Cup held in Baku. The event, which showcased some of the continent’s finest gymnasts, saw Raffaeli excel in her routines, demonstrating both technical precision and artistic flair.

Raffaeli’s performance was characterised by her fluid movements and innovative choreography, which captivated both the judges and the audience. Competing against a strong field of athletes, she managed to stand out through her ability to blend strength with grace, earning high scores across multiple apparatus.

© CONI – Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano

The Cross Battle format added an exciting twist to the competition, with gymnasts facing off in head-to-head challenges. This format not only tested their individual skills but also their ability to perform under pressure. Raffaeli navigated these challenges with poise, showcasing her extensive training and preparation.

Throughout the event, the atmosphere in Baku was electric, as fans rallied behind their favourite gymnasts. Raffaeli’s accomplishment adds to her growing list of achievements, further solidifying her reputation as one of the leading figures in European gymnastics.

 

As the competition concluded, Raffaeli expressed her gratitude for the support she received and highlighted the importance of events like these in fostering camaraderie among athletes.

Looking ahead, Raffaeli and her fellow competitors will continue to prepare for upcoming challenges, with eyes set on future competitions where they hope to further demonstrate their skills and passion for the sport.

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Chefs de Mission Seminar Begins in Skopje as Part of Preparations for EYOF Skopje 2025

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The Minister of Sports, Borko Ristovski, emphasized the state’s support for organizing the biggest sporting event ever held in North Macedonia. Representatives from 49 European Olympic Committees have the opportunity to get acquainted with the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities of the host cities Skopje and Kumanovo.

As part of the preparations for the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Skopje 2025, which will take place from July 20 to 26 in Skopje and Kumanovo, the Chefs de Mission seminar was officially opened today at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Skopje. The seminar will be held on April 9 and 10 and is attended by delegations from 49 European Olympic Committees.

Participants had the opportunity to learn more about the organizational aspects, sports venues, and logistical capacities, as well as the host cities of the largest sporting event in the history of North Macedonia. The Chefs de Mission seminar is one of the key milestones in the preparations for the festival, enabling the presentation of all aspects of the organization and the exchange of experiences with the delegations participating in EYOF Skopje 2025. For Skopje and Kumanovo, as host cities, this is a unique opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for such a large-scale sports event and to prove that North Macedonia can be part of the European and global sports map.

Before the official start of the seminar, speeches were delivered by Borko Ristovski – Minister of Sports, Daniel Dimevski – President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia and Liney Halldorsdottir – Chair of the EYOF Commission of the European Olympic Committees (EOC), who all emphasized the importance of the festival for youth sports and the international promotion of North Macedonia.

Minister Borko Ristovski highlighted the state’s support in organizing such a significant sports event.

“As a Government and Ministry, we are fully committed to enabling the successful organization of EYOF Skopje 2025 and to promoting true values among young people. This is more than just a sports event – it’s an investment in the youth, in sports infrastructure, and in the image of our country. I am confident that we will be excellent hosts and that in July we will see Skopje in its best light, ready to welcome the future stars of European sports,” said Ristovski.

The President of the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia, Daniel Dimevski, stressed the historical significance of the European Youth Olympic Festival for the country:

“This is an exceptional sports event, the biggest ever organized by our country, with nearly 4,000 participants and many guests and officials. From July 20 to 26, North Macedonia will become the center of sports in Europe, and we will have the privilege to host the best future European sports stars, many of whom will go on to become world and Olympic champions. This also opens up an opportunity not j+пust for international promotion of North Macedonia, but for a revival of youth sports at home. We expect around 200 Macedonian athletes to compete in all disciplines as hosts. Huge thanks to the Minister and the Government for backing this project – their support is essential for us to deliver an extraordinary sports event,” said Dimevski.

Chair of the EYOF Commission at the EOC, Liney Halldorsdottir, emphasized the importance of the seminar and the efforts of the local organizers:


“This seminar is essential – we are here to ensure all elements of the organization are of the highest standard. We are impressed with the progress and the commitment of the team in Skopje and Kumanovo. Although the Olympic Committee of North Macedonia joined the project only two years ago, a lot has been accomplished. This is both a challenge and a tremendous opportunity for your country,” Halldorsdottir noted.

Ahead of the festival, Skopje will also host a major event – “100 Days to EYOF”, which will take place at East Gate Mall on Saturday, April 12. This event will also provide support to families affected by the recent tragedy in Kočani, while the sports-entertainment part will include 3×3 basketball tournaments and a rich interactive program. The event will be a great opportunity for young people to experience the Olympic spirit and become part of the countdown to the start of the festival.

This summer, over 4,000 participants, including 900 volunteers, will take part in EYOF Skopje 2025, held from July 20 to 26. Competitions will be held in 15 sports: athletics, badminton, basketball, 3×3 basketball, canoe slalom, cycling, handball, judo, swimming, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, mountain biking, and gymnastics. During the festival, most competitions will take place in Skopje, while Kumanovo will host the cycling and basketball events. The unique sports atmosphere will be enriched by the gymnastics competitions held in Osijek, creating a true Olympic spirit across different locations.

The Final Countdown: Five Days to EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Start

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in Bakuriani 2025, EOC, EYOF, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on The Final Countdown: Five Days to EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Start

The stunning Georgian ski resort of Bakuriani is ready to welcome Europe’s finest young athletes as it plays host to the 2025 Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF). Taking place from the 9th to the 16th of February, this prestigious event will see approximately 2,000 competitors, aged 14 to 18, from 48 European nations, competing across eight thrilling winter sports disciplines.

The festival’s sporting events will be staged across three key locations:

  • Bakuriani – The heart of the festival, hosting alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Tbilisi – Ice hockey will be played at the Leader Arena in the Georgian capital.
  • Batumi – The Black Sea coastal city will showcase figure skating and short track speed skating at the newly developed Batumi Ice Arena.

The Girl’s Ice Hockey competition is going to be the first event to go live at the Festival, with preliminary games starting next Thursday, February 6th, in Tbilisi. Sweden, Finland, and Czechia are expected to be strong contenders for medals in the Girl’s competition. Meanwhile, Switzerland, Czechia, and Latvia are the teams to keep an eye on in the Boy’s event.

Athletes to Watch

Several promising young athletes are set to compete in Bakuriani 2025, each bringing remarkable talent and ambition to the event. For example, Zak Carrik Smiz (GBR), an exceptional apline skier. At the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, Zak made history by becoming the first British skier to win a gold medal in an Olympic alpine skiing event. He achieved this milestone in the men’s combined event, where, after placing 27th in the Super-G, he delivered an extraordinary slalom run that propelled him to the top of the podium. In addition to his success in the combined event, Zak further showcased his talent by securing another gold medal in the men’s slalom event at the same Games, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most promising young skiers.

A Stage for Future Champions

As the opening ceremony draws near, excitement is building among athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts alike. The Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 promises not only to be a spectacular showcase of young talent but also a demonstration of Georgia’s rising stature in global winter sports.

Stay tuned for an unforgettable week of athletic excellence, camaraderie, and inspiring moments in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains.

The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships: A Showcase of Talent in Tallin

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, Sin categoría, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships: A Showcase of Talent in Tallin

The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships are set to take place in the capital of Estonia, Tallinn, from January 28 to February 2, 2025. This marks a historic moment for the city, as it hosts the prestigious competition for the first time ever. The event will be held at the Tondiraba Ice Hall, a state-of-the-art venue known for its modern facilities and exceptional acoustics.

As the skating community gathers in Tallinn, excitement is building both among athletes and fans alike. The championship will showcase some of the world’s best figure skaters, competing for coveted medals in multiple categories, including Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Pairs, and Ice Dance.

Tallinn’s selection as the host city for this year’s championships is a significant milestone for Estonian figure skating. The city is buzzing with excitement, as fans are eager to witness top-tier performances from the world’s leading athletes. The Tondiraba Ice Hall, which will serve as the event’s main venue, offers a perfect backdrop for the competition, providing an atmosphere that is both intimate and thrilling.

Tallinn is hosting the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships for the second time. The city previously hosted the event in 2015, marking the first time Estonia had the honor of welcoming the European Championships.

Exciting Competitions Ahead

As the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships get underway, the competition promises to be fierce. Top skaters from all over Europe are set to compete for gold, silver, and bronze in their respective categories. The Men’s and Women’s Singles events are expected to be particularly thrilling, with fierce rivalries between established stars and rising talents.

The Pairs competition will showcase stunning synchrony, athleticism, and grace, as duos from across Europe demonstrate their technical skill and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Ice Dance competition will be a true display of artistry, with couples bringing their passion and creativity to the ice in a highly anticipated battle for the gold medal.

A Platform for Future Olympic Stars

Beyond the European titles up for grabs, the 2025 Championships are also a key opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills as they prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. For many skaters, this competition serves as a critical stepping stone on their journey toward Olympic glory. The European Championships are known for providing a platform for skaters to prove their readiness for the highest level of international competition.

As the skaters take to the ice in Tallinn, the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships promise to be a celebration of the sport, bringing together fans and athletes in an unforgettable showcase of talent and artistry.

Photo:OIS/IOC

Ilona Plecháčová: Biathlon’s Brightest Young Talent

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Ilona Plecháčová, born on 26 December 2006, is promptly emerging as one of the brightest talents in the world of biathlon. Representing the Czech Republic, this young athlete has already carved out an impressive career, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts and competitors alike. At just 18 years old, Plecháčová exemplifies determination, precision, and a knack for excelling under pressure.

Growing up in the picturesque landscapes of the Czech Republic, Ilona was introduced to winter sports at an early age. Her initial foray into skiing and shooting soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion for biathlon.

2024 marked a milestone year in Plecháčová’s career. During the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea, she made history by winning the first biathlon gold medal for the Czech Republic. Competing in the individual event, her flawless shooting and consistent skiing ensured her place at the top of the podium. This historic victory not only highlighted her talent but also underscored her potential to dominate in senior-level competitions.

Her success continued later that year at the Junior Cup held in Jakuszyce, Poland. Competing in the women’s sprint event, Plecháčová secured a commanding victory, showcasing her impeccable shooting accuracy and tactical prowess on the course. With a perfect score in shooting, she demonstrated the mental fortitude and focus required to excel in this demanding sport.

Plecháčová’s performance statistics further solidify her reputation as a formidable athlete. According to data from the International Biathlon Union (IBU), she achieved a remarkable 96% accuracy in prone shooting and 70% in standing shooting during the 2024/2025 season. Her skiing efficiency, averaging +9.6 seconds per kilometre compared to the fastest competitors, reflects her technical expertise and physical conditioning.

Beyond her athletic prowess, Ilona Plecháčová is quickly becoming a role model for young athletes in her home country and beyond. Her dedication to the sport, combined with her humility and work ethic, resonates with fans and aspiring biathletes. By breaking records and overcoming challenges, she inspires others to pursue their dreams with the same passion and commitment.

Looking Ahead

As she transitions from youth to senior competitions, Plecháčová’s future in biathlon looks exceptionally promising. With the 2025 World Championships and future Olympic Games on the horizon, she stands poised to further cement her legacy. The biathlon community eagerly awaits her next performances, anticipating more record-breaking moments from this extraordinary athlete.

Ilona Plecháčová is not just a rising star in biathlon; she is a testament to what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and unyielding determination. As she continues her journey, the world will undoubtedly be watching closely, cheering her on every step of the way.

Croatia, Denmark, and Norway to host the 2025 Men´s Handball World Championship

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From 14 January to 2 February, the world’s 32 best men’s handball teams will compete to claim the 2025 World Championship. For the first time, this prestigious tournament will be hosted by three countries, with matches taking place across five venues in five host cities: Zagreb, Varaždin, Poreč, Bærum, and Herning. Denmark, not only a host nation but also the reigning triple world champion, enters the competition aiming to defend their titles from 2019, 2021, and 2023.

In the preliminary round, the 32 teams are divided into eight groups of four. The top three teams from each group will progress to the main round, while those that do not qualify will compete in the President’s Cup to determine positions 25 to 32. During the main round, the remaining teams will be organised into four groups of six. The top two teams from each group in the main round will qualify for the quarter-finals. The gold and bronze medal matches are scheduled for 2 February in Oslo, Norway.

After the opening days of the tournament, Germany, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Egypt are leading their respective groups. However, two groups have yet to play their first matches.

Guinea made history on Wednesday, 15 January, as they played their first-ever match in an IHF Men’s World Championship. The favourites for the title include Denmark, who are seeking their fourth consecutive championship, as well as France, Norway, Spain, and Sweden.

Photo credit: IHF.