With drums, dance, a packed arena, and the inspiring motto “From Albania to Europe – We Bring Heart to the Platform,” the 2025 EWF European Junior & U23 Championships were officially opened last night in the Adriatic coastal city of Durrës.
The week-long event, taking place from 28 October to 4 November at the Ramazan Njala Sports Palace, brings together the finest Junior and U23 weightlifters from across Europe.
Distinguished guests attended the ceremony and presented awards, including Minister of Agriculture Andis Salla, Deputy Minister of Sport Endrit Hoxha, Albanian NOC President Fidel Ylli, and triple Olympic champion and IWF Executive Board member Pyrros Dimas.
A vibrant cultural program showcasing traditional Albanian music and dance lit up the stage. Bright folk costumes, dazzling choreography, and lively rhythms filled the arena, uniting athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers alike in a shared celebration of movement and spirit.
The Olympic Oath Ceremony featured Amelie Pelta (GBR) speaking on behalf of the athletes, David Matam (FRA) for the coaches, and Sabina Rzayeva (AZE) for the technical officials.
Elez Gjoza, President of the Albanian and Balkan Weightlifting Federations, together with EWF President Dr. Astrit Hasani, formally declared the Championships open.
Having recently hosted several European and World Championships, as well as the IWF Elective Congress, the Albanian Weightlifting Federation continues to stand out as one of the most active and dynamic federations on the European continent.