Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games Museum opens in China

FISU has a long and storied history of showcasing and growing university sport around the world. Today, 24 July, at the Dong’an Lake Sports Park Stadium in Chengdu, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games Museum was inaugurated at an opening ceremony.

With dignitaries on hand from FISU and the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games Organizing Committee, this incredible gallery of history now provides a permanent record of the FISU World University Games Summer, China’s history of hosting the FISU Games, legendary athletes that have competed, as well as Chengdu’s journey through bidding, planning, and soon to be hosting of the FISU Games.

FISU Acting President Leonz Eder greeted guests and spoke of the value of this archive. “This shows invaluable treasures from previous FISU World University Games…it really unique – it’s fantastic.” He presented a plaque to the museum as an official certificate of opening as well as another piece for the galleries, a FISU flag emblazoned with all previous hosts of the FISU Games Summer and Winter.

Eric Saintrond, FISU Secretary General and CEO, saw his journey with FISU reflected in the museum’s galleries, images, and artifacts. “I’m very impressed. This is nearly 40 years of my life.” He promised to ensure additional pieces are provided to further tell the story of FISU and university sport. “We will continue to bring additional souvenirs. You’ve created something very special for university sport in the world,” he said.

The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games Museum is not only a tribute and record of global university sport, but it is also a wonderful asset for Chengdu. “A museum is a space where we experience and learn,” said Chen Yanfu, Executive Vice President of the Executive Committee of the Organizing Committee of the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games. “[This] will become another milestone in the work to make Chengdu a great city of culture,” he continued. As did Saintrond, Chen also noted a desire to continue to enrich the collections and displays, as well as the digitization of existing museum assets.

To conclude the opening ceremony, FISU Acting President Eder was presented with an Honorary Curator Appointment Letter from the museum. This was followed by all the dignitaries from FISU and Chengdu on stage to each cut a portion of the ribbon officially declaring open this spectacular new institution to the FISU World University Games, university sport, and Chengdu’s current host role.

Written by Doug McLean