About the Country and the City
Each FISU World University Championship is more than just a sporting event — it’s a unique opportunity to discover a new culture, explore a region, and connect with a vibrant academic community.
This page introduces you to the host country and city for this edition, highlighting their history, key features, and commitment to sport and youth.
Portugal
Portugal is a country located in the southwest of Europe, bordered by Spain to the east and north, and by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south.
Though small in size, it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering an incredible variety of landscapes — from golden beaches and rugged cliffs to rolling plains and green mountains.
Once a nation of explorers, Portugal played a key role in the Age of Discoveries, connecting continents and cultures across the globe. Today, it is known as the oldest nation in Europe with defined borders, a proud member of the European Union, and the only Portuguese-speaking country in Europe.
Its capital, Lisbon, combines tradition and innovation, while Porto, in the north, is famous for its wine, architecture, and charm.
Portugal is also globally recognised for its gastronomy, hospitality, music (notably Fado), and passion for football, as well as for its pleasant climate and safe, welcoming environment.
According to the Global Peace Index, Portugal is among the top ten most peaceful countries in the world.
Total area: 92,212 km²
Population: 10,247 million (2023 estimate)
GDP total: $251.95 billion, per capita: $22112,74 (2022)
Human Development Index (HDI): 0.866 (38th) (2021)
Capital: Lisbon
Currency: Euro €
Time zone: CET – 1
Total area: 92,212 km²
Population: 10,247 million (2023 estimate)
Vila Real
Nestled between the mountains and rivers of northern Portugal, Vila Real stands as a city where nature, culture, and innovation converge. Known for its scenic landscapes, historical heritage, and vibrant university community, Vila Real offers a perfect blend of authenticity and modernity. Its unique topography — with the Corgo River cutting deep valleys and the surrounding Serra do Marão providing breathtaking views — makes it an ideal setting for outdoor and endurance sports such as orienteering.
In 2026, Vila Real will proudly host the FISU World University Championship Orienteering, welcoming student-athletes from around the globe to compete in one of the world’s most challenging and rewarding sports. The city’s diverse terrain — from forest trails to urban routes and steep mountain slopes — provides an exceptional natural arena that will test the athletes’ precision, endurance, and strategy. The event will also highlight Vila Real’s strong commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and active lifestyles.
As home to the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real is a youthful and dynamic city that values education, innovation, and international exchange. The partnership between UTAD, the Municipality of Vila Real, and national sports federations ensures a professional and welcoming environment for all participants, blending academic excellence with sporting spirit.
Beyond the competition, visitors will discover a region rich in gastronomy, traditions, and hospitality. From the baroque beauty of Mateus Palace to the winding Douro valleys — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape — Vila Real offers an unforgettable experience of Portuguese culture and nature. In 2026, Vila Real will not only host a world-class championship but also open its doors to the world, celebrating sport, youth, and discovery.
University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro
The University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), located in Vila Real, is one of Portugal’s leading institutions in environmental, agricultural, and life sciences, as well as in technology, education, and sports.
Founded in 1986, UTAD is a dynamic and innovative university with a strong connection to the surrounding region and its natural landscapes.
Its eco-friendly campus, often described as a “green university city,” provides the ideal setting for research, learning, and sport.
The university promotes an active lifestyle and sustainable development, making it a natural partner for the 2026 FISU World University Championship Orienteering.
With a vibrant academic community and a commitment to international cooperation, UTAD embodies the values of knowledge, discovery, and respect for nature — perfectly aligned with the spirit of orienteering and university sport.