NOVI SAD DECLARED EUROPEAN CITY OF SPORT FOR 2026, ACES EUROPE: RECOGNITION FOR EXEMPLARY SPORTS POLICY

The City of Novi Sad has officially been awarded the title of European City of Sport for 2026 by the European Capitals and Cities of Sport Federation (ACES Europe). In the official letter of congratulations sent to the city, the President and founder of ACES Europe, Mr. Gian Francesco Lupattelli, stated that Novi Sad received this recognition due to its exemplary sports policy, widely accessible sports programs, high-quality infrastructure, and strong commitment to health, education, inclusion, and the promotion of respect.
- Your city has demonstrated a strong commitment to the core values of the ACES organization and rightfully becomes part of its international family - highlighted Mr. Lupattelli in his message.

This prestigious recognition is a strong affirmation of the city’s long-term strategic efforts and systematic investments in the development of sports, sports infrastructure, support for young athletes, and the improvement of citizens’ quality of life through the promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

- As the Mayor of Novi Sad, and on behalf of all institutions, athletes, coaches, educators, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to this success, I extend my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to all citizens of Novi Sad, as well as to all citizens of Serbia. This is a shared recognition for our love of sports, for our selfless support, and for the spirit of community that defines us. The recognition of Novi Sad as the European City of Sport for 2026 is the result of our consistent and ongoing dedication to sports development. In recent years, we have carried out numerous investments in sports infrastructure worth over 35 million euros, ranging from the construction and renovation of sports halls, fields, and facilities, to cycling paths and strong support for school, club, and amateur sports. We will continue investing in sports. This year alone, we are allocating 988 million dinars. At the same time, we will continue investing in the development of culture, education, environmental protection, the improvement of public infrastructure, and the city’s economic growth. This title not only encourages further sports development but also gives a strong boost to tourism, international cooperation, cultural exchange, education, social inclusion, and public health improvement. Novi Sad is showing that it is a city that believes in unity, and it proves that every day through sport,” said the Mayor of Novi Sad, Žarko Mićin.

The official award ceremony will be held at the end of 2025 in the European Parliament in Brussels, where Novi Sad will be presented as one of the leading European cities in the field of sports. On this occasion, the city will also compete for an additional accolade – the title of "European City of Sport of the Year."

Novi Sad, July 9, 2025