The EuroGames, Europe’s largest LGBTQ sporting event, kicked off on Wednesday with an opening ceremony on Vienna’s Karlsplatz.
Europe’s largest LGBTQ sporting event kicked off on Wednesday with an opening ceremony at Vienna’s Karlsplatz.
For the first time since their creation in 1992, Austria is hosting the EuroGames, which will bring together 4,000 athletes from 50 countries in 31 different sports, from tennis to badminton, football and roller derby.
For the organizers, the priority is to ensure a safe space for its participants. “It is important for the community that we can meet in a safe space. We feel good here, we feel safe. But at the same time, we are open to everyone who wants to participate, watch and support us and who may not have met the community closely until now,” assured Thomas Nobis, organizer of the tournament.
LGBTQ drag icon Conchita Wurst welcomed attendees.
The capital Vienna is supporting the event with 150,000 euros and offering free access to various sports venues.