The Federal Ministry for Arts, Culture, Public Service, and Sports (BMKÖS), in collaboration with EuroGames Vienna 2024, hosted the kickoff event on 9th November 2023 at the Spiegelsaal in the House of Sports. Vienna is set to witness a diverse and inclusive array of sports at the EuroGames 2024 next year – the world’s largest LGBTQ+ sporting event. For the second time after 2022, Pickleball will be part of the EuroGames. The Pickleball Federation Austria will host the Pickleball competitions of EuroGames 2024 from July 17th to 20th at Racketworld Ottakring. Information for registration will follow.
Lunacek shines the spotlight on Pickleball
Moderator Ulrike Lunacek (Team EuroGames Vienna 2024 and former Vice President of the European Parliament) guided the event, repeatedly highlighting Pickleball as a prime example of inclusive sports. Notable figures like Werner Kogler, Vice Chancellor of the Republic of Austria and Federal Minister for Arts, Culture, Public Service, and Sports, as well as representatives from the City of Vienna, were present to emphasize the significance and scale of the upcoming event.
To conclude the informative and engaging evening, there was an opportunity for representatives from various sports to connect. Pickleball Federation Austria President Peter Robic took the opportunity to make contacts. In the picture (left to right): RFA president Marcel Weigl, Team EuroGames 2024 Bianca Gebhart, Peter Robic, Team EuroGames Ulrike Lunacek.
What are the EuroGames?
The EuroGames are the largest multi-sport event embracing diversity in sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual characteristics. The primary aim of the event is to create a safe space for everyone to come together and play sports. The event, scheduled from July 17th to 20th, 2024, is expected to gather around 3,000 LGBTQ+ athletes and allies in approximately 30 sports disciplines. The motto “Embrace Diversity” will be the central message, promoting inclusivity, unity, and the joy of sports.
Volunteers for EuroGames Vienna 2024 are being sought. Applications are already available on the website.
