Delegations from around the world arrived in the Chinese city of Chengdu, to participate in the Head of Delegations meeting (HoD) from 28-31 March, in advance of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games, planned to take place from 28th of July to 8th of August. 

At the Head of Delegations meeting, total of 79 delegations attended, with 33 present on site and 46 assisting remotely. The aim of the Heads of Delegation (HoD) Meeting was to provide a crucial platform for Chengdu and delegations from all around the world to come together and exchange ideas, knowledge, and experiences.

Members of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the Federation of University Sports of China, and the Executive Committee of the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games delivered insightful speechs at the meeting. FISU acting President Mr Leonz Eder heartfully thanked the organising committee and the government authorities for the extraordinary work and hospitality.  

The first part of the meeting, was reserved fo the  members of the organising committee to brief the delegates about the various operations, processes and rules that will be implemented for the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games – covering topics such as accreditation, visa delivery, arrivals and departures, transportation, security, finances, doping controls, catering, medical services, opening and closing ceremonies, media, ticketing, cultural activities and delegation services.

During the four-day Heads of Delegation (HoD) Meeting for the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games, the delegations have the opportunity to gather valuable information on 15 Functional Areas, exchange ideas, and inspect 27 competition venues, as well as the FISU Games Village.

In addition, the participating delegations also engaged in cultural experience activities to gain a deeper understanding of the city's construction, history, environment, and distinctive cuisine.

On 30th of March, FISU proceeded to the team draw for three sports: Basketball, Volleyball and Water polo. Once drawn in their respective pools, teams were seeded inside each pool through an additional draw, to ensure more random initial games. 

At one of the press conferences of the event, FISU Acting President Mr Leonz Eder, higlighted the essential role of the HoD meeting saying that the venues are fantastic, the people enthusiastic and that they are really looking forward to attending the Games, while FISU Secretary General - CEO Mr Eric Saintrond stated that the #Chengdu2021 FISU Games will play an important role for this unity and peace between student athletes and within the world of university sports.

Delegates and FISU staff expressed also expressed very positive impressions after what they heard and saw, agreeing with the organising committee that “Chengdu is ready”!

 For more information on the FISU World University Games, please see www.fisu.net or the official website of the event www.2021chengdu.com/