The International University Sports Federation (FISU) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the International Federation Forum in Lausanne on November 9, formalising an era of closer collaboration and confirming areas of mutual interest within student sport.

The Memorandum outlines three specific areas that will drive FISU’s relationship with the IOC moving forward. Firstly, both organisations will work to develop a dual career programme. This programme will help ensure that athletes’ sporting successes are complemented by academic attainment, which will serve as the foundation of their careers after their time as elite sportsmen and women. Secondly, FISU and the IOC will draw on their respective experience from the Universiades and the Olympic Games to share best practice in sports competition management. Thirdly, FISU expects to maximise the contribution of universities to the Olympic Movement through sports development and also through research.



“Today’s MoU signing is a fitting conclusion to what has been a highly rewarding first year as FISU President. This agreement will help deliver a brighter future as FISU and the IOC work together to share expertise and connect young people to the benefits of sport and the values of Olympism. With the continued collaboration of the Olympic Movement, I have no doubt that university sport will play an ever-greater role in shaping tomorrow’s leaders”, FISU President Mr Oleg Matytsin said.



“The IOC is pleased to partner with FISU and the other organisations that help shape young people’s direct experiences of sport and of friendly international competition”, said IOC President Mr Thomas Bach, who participated as a student-athlete at two Summer Universiades (Moscow 1973 & Mexico City 1979). “The IOC acknowledges the important role that FISU plays in the field of education through sport and the leadership of the organisation in the development and promotion of international university sport. FISU and universities play a vital role in using sport to connect young people with the Olympic values of friendship, respect and excellence. Universities also help ensure that elite athletes are well-rounded individuals who have developed their skills both on and off the field. I am confident that this MoU will mark a long and fruitful collaboration with FISU.”

For more information, please see www.fisu.net and www.olympic.org.