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The city of Poreč - Parenzo has been officially declared the European City of Sport for 2027, after the decision was made by the commission of the ACES Europe organization, which awards this prestigious title to cities with exceptional results in the development of sports, sports infrastructure and the inclusion of citizens in an active and healthy lifestyle.
Poreč's candidacy was based on the values of accessibility, inclusion, fair play and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, and the goal is to further increase citizen involvement in sports and strengthen the city's international recognition as a place for active and healthy living.
This title is a confirmation of many years of systematic investment in sports, but also a recognition for everyone who lives sports in Poreč every day: athletes, coaches, clubs, recreational players and numerous generations of children involved in sports programs.
Poreč is already recognized within Croatia as a city of sports, with an exceptionally high level of citizen involvement - almost 40% of residents actively participate in sports, through clubs or recreational activities.
The city counts 3.832 registered athletes in 55 clubs and 36 sports disciplines, while more than 1.000 children are involved in sports schools. In addition, Poreč has more than 280 sports and recreational facilities and continuously invests significant funds in the development of sports and health, with around 8% of the city budget allocated to sports, which is almost three times more than the European average.
"This is a great recognition for our city, but above all for all the people who make sport in Poreč. We are proud that Europe has recognized what we have been living for a long time, which is that sport in Poreč is a way of life. This title is a recognition, but also an obligation to continue investing in children and young people, developing recreation for all generations and further strengthening inclusive sport. Our goal remains clear, which is that sport must be accessible to everyone and that every child in Poreč engages in some sport as part of a healthy upbringing. I am proud of our athletes, coaches, clubs, but also of all children and recreational players because this is a recognition for all of us. Poreč is now officially the European City of Sport, but for us it has been a reality for a long time", said the mayor of Poreč Loris Peršurić emphasizing the importance of this recognition and thanking his fellow citizens and associates without whom this candidacy would not have been possible.
Gian Francesco Lupatelli, the president of the organization, said that Poreč has thus become part of the ACES family of cities that set standards in European sports policy and an example of good practice at the international level.
"Poreč has earned the title of European City of Sport 2027 as a city that represents an exceptionally good example of promoting sport for all citizens. The city stands out for its high level of population involvement in sports activities, developed and well-maintained sports infrastructure, and well-structured programs that encompass all age groups – from children and young people to recreational athletes and the elderly. Of particular note is the strong connection between sport and public health, education, and social inclusion, as well as continuous investment in the sports system and the development of new facilities. Such an approach clearly demonstrates the city's strategic orientation towards sport as an important part of the quality of life and community development" Lupatelli concluded.
Recall that during the evaluation visit, ACES Europe representatives visited key sports facilities and programs, including the Žatika sports hall, activities for children, recreational programs for the elderly, and training for people with disabilities, highlighting the high level of organization, developed infrastructure, and strong connection between sport and the quality of life of citizens.
The award ceremony will take place at the end of 2026 in the European Parliament, and Poreč will celebrate the title of European City of Sport during 2027 with numerous sports programs, events and additional investments in sports infrastructure.
