Record participation expected at 2027 Winter Universiade in Changchun

A boy poses with the mascots "Ji Bing" (R) and "Ji Xue" at the 100-day countdown event for the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Oct. 7, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua)

A record 3,716 participants from 63 countries and regions have registered for the 2027 Winter Universiade in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, organizers announced Wednesday.

The Games, scheduled for January 15 to 25, will feature 97 medal events across 12 disciplines. Organizers said the number of registrations was the highest in Winter Universiade history.

China is assembling a delegation of about 400 members, including approximately 240 athletes, and plans to compete in 11 of the 12 disciplines, with ice hockey the only exception.

"I hope the Changchun Winter Universiade will inspire more young people to take an interest in ice and snow sports, get involved and develop a lasting passion for them," Chinese curler Dong Ziqi said.

Curling competition is scheduled to begin Jan. 12, three days before the official opening, while popular events including short-track speedskating, speedskating, freestyle skiing and aerials will take place on weekends.

Organizers said cost efficiency and sustainability have been central to preparations, with all 13 competition venues being upgraded from existing facilities rather than built from scratch.

The venues will remain open to the public after the Games, serving as facilities for professional training, sporting competitions and recreational winter sports.