The European Youth Olympic Festival - EYOF Skopje 2025 has opened in the capital of North Macedonia. The opening ceremony was attended by the team of Bosnia and Herzegovina with 34 young athletes who will prove themselves in six sports. Our team was also greeted from the stands by the President of the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Academician Prof. Dr. Izet Rađo, and the Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Dr. Said Fazlagić.

The flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina was carried by Zakira Pušina and Nino Šeremet at the opening.

EYOF Skopje 2025 brings seven days of sports competition, culture and friendship.

Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy the performance of the EYOF anthem "Together We Shine." Composed by renowned producer Robert Bilbilov, this anthem has already become a symbol of unity, youthful energy, and Olympic spirit, now presented as a call to Europe for togetherness, hope, and the strength of youth.

During the ceremony, the President of the European Olympic Committees, Spyros Capralos, emphasized the importance of EYOF as a platform for the development of youth sports and cultural exchange. The President of North Macedonia, Mrs. Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, officially opened this sports and cultural event, marking the start of a seven-day celebration of sporting excellence and friendship.

The grand parade of all 49 delegations, including the Refugee Team of the EOC, who raised their national flags, further highlighted the inclusiveness and diversity of the event. All athletes, aged 14 to 18, showcased themselves in the arena carrying their national flags, bringing energy and hope to a new European generation.

Additionally, the program was enriched by a unique musical-theatrical spectacle showcasing the richness of Macedonian culture, with innovative scenography and multimedia presentations inspired by Olympic values. A special focus was also placed on promoting the culture of our country, creating an atmosphere of pride, celebration, and unity.

Skopje 2025 has already made a mark as the largest sports event in North Macedonia’s history, attracting over 4,000 young athletes, coaches, officials, journalists, and volunteers, along with nearly 200 Macedonian competitors—a record number for the country. Besides competitions in 15 sports, a variety of cultural, educational, and training activities, as well as entertainment programs including the mascot Shiny, are part of the event.

This event represents an opportunity for North Macedonia to present itself as a modern, open, and well-organized European country.