ISF U15 Gymnasiade 2025 Opens in Zlatibor!
After several days of rain, Zlatibor welcomed a warm and sunny day just in time for the opening of the ISF U15 Gymnasiade 2025. Surrounded by pine forests and bathed in golden sunlight, the town truly lived up to its name – Zlatibor, meaning “Golden Pines” in Serbian.
Cheered on by local residents, delegations paraded around the picturesque Zlatibor Lake, waving their flags with pride before entering King’s Square for the Opening Ceremony.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Alireza Kazemi, Minister of Education of Iran; Mr. Sergiy Tymofeyev, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine; ISF Executive Committee members, mayors and representatives from surrounding host cities; and other stakeholders' representatives of ISF and the event.
In his opening speech, Mr. Zeljko Tanaskovic, President of the Serbian School Sport Federation and ISF Continental President, welcomed the athletes and highlighted the essence of the event:
“This event supports education, a healthy lifestyle, and understanding of cultural differences. It is for you, children, to make new friends, enjoy your time together, and let us all send a message to the world:
Sport is a bridge that connects us and gives us the opportunity to feel true joy.
I hope you will take beautiful memories from Serbia and Zlatibor, and believe in yourselves even more.”
ISF Acting President Mr. Youssef Belqasmi reaffirmed the federation’s mission of “Empowering Youth Through Sport & Education”, stating:
“The ISF Gymnasiade is more than just a competition – it is a celebration of youth, education, and sport. It is a place where cultures come together, where lifelong friendships are formed, and where the spirit of sportsmanship shines above all. Each of you here today represents the future, and through your passion and commitment, you inspire millions of young people across the globe.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to the Serbian School Sport Federation, the Local Organising Committee, ISF partners, and the many volunteers for their unwavering support and hard work in bringing the event to life.
The ceremony concluded with an inspiring address by Mr. Zoran Gajić, Minister of Sport of Serbia:
“Today, in our country, we are proud to host students and their teachers from different parts of the world. Young individuals who, through their hard work, effort, and education, have earned the opportunity to represent their countries and regions at this major international school competition.”
“UNESCO’s International Charter reminds us that physical education, activity and sport promote values such as fair play, equality, integrity, excellence, courage, community spirit, and joy.
Together, we will strive to create and strengthen friendships here in Zlatibor. I hope you will come to love our beautiful Serbia – and return one day as our friends and guests.”
With delegations from nearly 60 countries and regions, and close to 4,000 participants – including almost 3,000 young athletes – the ISF U15 Gymnasiade 2025 marks the largest edition in the event’s history.
As competitions unfold across 22 sports, including three para-sports, Zlatibor becomes more than a host city – it becomes a symbol of unity, learning, and youthful ambition.
For ten days, Zlatibor will shine not only as a scenic town in the Serbian mountains, but as a vibrant hub where education, sport, and culture come together to empower the next generation. The first competition day begins on April 6, featuring artistic gymnastics, badminton, chess, fencing, orienteering, tennis, and wrestling, as athletes take to the fields, courts, and arenas with passion and determination.
