“Thank You for the Wonderful Swedish Hospitality”

FISU World Forum 2026 has concluded after five days of education, sport, wellbeing, culture and international exchange, with the aim of turning ideas into concrete action for the future of university sport. For Mid Sweden University, the forum has created new opportunities for international collaboration.

“Besides bringing a vibrant international presence to our campus, the FISU World Forum has demonstrated how universities can contribute to the future of sport through research, education and support for dual careers. For Mid Sweden University, it has been an excellent opportunity to establish new international partnerships, strengthen existing networks and showcase our campuses to prospective students from around the world,” said Anders Fällström, Vice-Chancellor of Mid Sweden University.

This year’s theme, “Active Body, Healthy Mind: How Sport Can Make a Difference at University”, highlighted student health, wellbeing and the opportunities to combine higher education with elite sport. Throughout the week, discussions covered Healthy Campus initiatives, inclusive and sustainable sporting events, and university environments that support dual careers.

The final day of the forum placed students centre stage as they presented the projects they had developed during the week.

“The significance of this forum is measured by what we take home from it. We have spent five inspiring days here, and now it is time to turn our ideas into action,” said Verena Burk, Chair of FISU’s Education Committee.

Participants’ reflections after the week testified to the forum’s importance, both professionally and personally.

“Thank you for the wonderful Swedish hospitality. You have a culture that puts people at the centre, and we have all felt that. Long live the FISU World Forum,” said Mattias Remund, Secretary General of FISU.

For the organisers, the forum also served as confirmation of Östersund’s strengths as an international host city.

“Together, we have delivered an outstanding event. Once again, we have demonstrated that Östersund possesses the expertise, experience and commitment required to host international events of the highest quality. The positive feedback we have received from participants means a great deal to us and confirms that Östersund is a destination and host city capable of attracting and successfully delivering more international events in the future,” said Putte Eby, Tourism Development Strategist at Östersund Municipality.

The importance of university sport as a positive force in society was also highlighted.

“We know that university sport can make a difference. Sometimes that takes the form of competitions and events. Just as often, sport and health make a difference through the way they influence leadership, how we create opportunities for dual careers for student athletes, and how university sport can serve as a counterbalance to increasingly sedentary lifestyles. It has been a fantastic week in Östersund, where we have once again reminded one another that university sport is ultimately about people and relationships,” said Lovisa Broms, Chair of the Organising Committee.

The forum concluded with the traditional flag handover to the next host city, Brasília, which will host the FISU World Forum 2028.

“We will take care of all members of this community and ensure that student voices are heard. We look forward to writing the next chapter in Brazil,” said Mario Ferro, representative of FISU World Forum 2028.

FISU World Forum is a global gathering place for students, university sport leaders, representatives of Healthy Campus universities and other professionals.

FISU World Forum 2026 was organised by Mid Sweden University and the Swedish University Sports Association (SAIF) in cooperation with the International University Sports Federation (FISU), Östersund Municipality and Region Jämtland Härjedalen.