A Championship to Remember: EYUC U17 2026 Concludes in Vienna
EYUC 2026 ©European Ultimate Federation/ Erik Almer
From 3 to 8 August 2026, the ÖFB Campus in Vienna’s Seestadt became the centre of European Youth Ultimate as the European Youth Ultimate Championship U17 brought together around 400 young athletes from across the continent.
A total of 19 teams representing 11 nations competed in the U17 Open and U17 Women’s divisions. Over six days, the athletes played 72 games and scored 1,263 points, showcasing a high level of competition, impressive athletic performances and the values that make Ultimate unique.
Six days of competition and connection
The championship was officially opened by Austrian State Secretary for Sport Michaela Schmidt, marking the beginning of an exciting week of group-stage games and knockout rounds.
The modern facilities at the ÖFB Campus provided an outstanding setting for the tournament. Immaculate pitches, high-quality facilities and professional event operations allowed the young athletes to experience a championship environment at the highest level.
The tournament concluded with an unforgettable day of finals in front of a packed stadium. The large number of spectators created a fantastic atmosphere and demonstrated the growing interest in Youth Ultimate across Europe.
However, the success of EYUC U17 2026 extended far beyond what happened on the field. The collaboration between the European Ultimate Federation, the Austrian Ultimate Federation, the ÖFB, the local organising team, participating delegations and volunteers played a major role in delivering the event.
Throughout the week, teams supported one another both on and off the field, creating an atmosphere defined by competition, respect and connection. Volunteers and event staff worked tirelessly to ensure that teams felt welcomed and supported from the moment they arrived.
Spirit of the Game at the heart of EYUC
As always, Spirit of the Game remained at the centre of the championship. Ultimate is self-officiated, placing responsibility for fair play, communication and respect directly in the hands of the athletes.
Even during highly competitive games, the teams demonstrated that sporting ambition and mutual respect can go hand in hand. The championship’s commitment to Spirit of the Game was further strengthened by the presence of a dedicated Spirit Director throughout the event.
Even during highly competitive games, the teams demonstrated that sporting ambition and mutual respect can go hand in hand. The championship’s commitment to Spirit of the Game was further strengthened by the presence of a dedicated Spirit Director throughout the event.
Great Britain received the Spirit of the Game award in the U17 Open division, while Belgium secured the award in the U17 Women’s division.
Great Britain received the Spirit of the Game award in the U17 Open division, while Belgium secured the award in the U17 Women’s division.
Final standings
After an exciting week of competition, Belgium claimed the European title in the U17 Open division following their final against France. Germany completed the podium by securing the bronze medal.
U17 Open
Gold: Belgium
Silver: France
Bronze: Germany
Spirit of the Game winner: Great Britain
In the U17 Women’s division, France became European champions after defeating Italy in the final. Germany also secured bronze in this division, completing a successful championship with two podium finishes.
U17 Women
Gold: France
Silver: Italy
Bronze: Germany
Spirit of the Game winner: Belgium
The Austrian teams also delivered strong performances on home soil. The Austrian Women’s team finished fifth in the competition and achieved second place in the Spirit ranking, while the Austrian Open team concluded the championship in ninth place.
The complete standings and match results are available here.
A tournament shaped by its community
Despite the extreme summer heat, the safety and wellbeing of the athletes remained a priority throughout the championship. The organising and medical teams implemented comprehensive heat-safety measures, including access to shade, ice and cool recovery areas. Doctors, medical staff and ambulances were also available on site.
The professionalism and support provided by the event team were repeatedly highlighted by participating teams.
Tom “Yellow” Lees, coach of the Great Britain Open team, described the championship as an “excellent venue and event”, praising the facilities, food, pitches and the helpfulness of everyone involved in organising the tournament.
Dennis Olsson, coach of the Swedish Open team, highlighted the wider meaning of the event:
“Thank you Austria for providing a fantastic venue and exceptional organisation that created the stage for 410 young athletes from across Europe to connect through Ultimate. The championship’s commitment to Spirit of the Game shows how great competition, fair play and genuine connection between opponents can bring out the very best in our sport.”
Tournament Director Peter Scheruga also reflected on a memorable week:
“The event surpassed all my wildest expectations. From the athletic performances and our collaboration with the ÖFB to the incredible number of fans who joined us during the heatwave – it was a truly special event. A huge thank you goes to all our volunteers. We are already looking forward to next year!”
EYUC 2026 ©European Ultimate Federation/ Erik Almer
Looking ahead to EYUC U20 2027
EYUC U17 2026 set a new standard for European Youth Ultimate and demonstrated what can be achieved through strong cooperation, committed volunteers and a shared passion for the sport.
The European Ultimate Federation would like to thank all athletes, coaches, team managers, medical staff, volunteers, partners, spectators and everyone who contributed to making the championship such a success.
Preparations are already underway for EYUC U20 2027, which will bring Europe’s young Ultimate athletes back to Vienna during the first week of August.
After a week filled with outstanding performances, a packed stadium and unforgettable moments, we are already looking forward to welcoming the European Ultimate community back in 2027.
Further information and registration details for the next championship will be available here.
