In unity with the region's settlements for the year of movement

We have literally and figuratively raised the flag, as the mayors of the municipalities joining the Veszprém-Balaton European Region of Sport 2026 program have received unique flags with which they can proudly announce that in 2026, we will jointly promote the region.

Although most of the year is still ahead of us, the Region of Sport program series is already active, and more and more people are responding to the calls. However, community building is not a campaign-like goal in the Region of Sport, but rather a year-round commitment. That is why we are grateful to those communities that have placed their trust in us and joined us. We would like the pride that comes with a lifestyle rich in sports and exercise to literally fly high in these villages and towns. That is why we presented the mayors with unique, personalized flags at our ceremony held at CODE Center of Digital Experiences, so that by displaying them, the messages of the Region of Sport should spread that we are strong when we are united.

At the festive event, Péter Ovádi, Member of Parliament, emphasized the power of regional thinking. He reminded the audience that the first step is always the hardest, but Veszprém and the region have already proven that they are capable of dreaming big. "In 2026, we will show Europe that movement is also ours," he said, adding that, in addition to culture and innovation, the love of sport has become our new common language.

Gyula Porga, mayor of Veszprém, emphasized trust and harmony, referring to his former career as an athlete. However, he warned that the task ahead of us is full of challenges: "It is easier to attend a concert as a spectator than to take off your leather shoes, put on your sneakers, and start exercising." Nevertheless, the goal is clear: to convince people that exercise gives life, and to make ours one of the healthiest regions in Europe.

Tibor Navracsics, Minister of Public Administration and Regional Development, spoke about the importance of regional integration, saying that the European Capital of Culture program is a worthy continuation of the Region of Sport program. is a worthy continuation of the European Capital of Culture program. He emphasized the importance of fair play, saying that the programs provide an opportunity to showcase the "better side of ourselves", where communities are competitors but never enemies, and where sport creates jobs and a more liveable environment.

The most personal message of the event was expressed by Alexandra Gyurkó, a transplanted athlete. She said that true strength lies not in facilities, but in human destinies. That is why our goal is for the Region of Sport to be a network where athletes and parasports athletes alike feel at home, and where we are able to bring everyone out of isolation.

The flags are already advertising the public works at the settlements. Join us, let's move together in 2026!