Athlete Zone Brings Learning, Friendship and Fun to Rieti 2026
by 19th July 2026
Competition is only one part of the championship experience.
At the Rieti 2026 European Athletics U18 Championships, athletes once again have a dedicated space to connect, unwind and enjoy activities beyond the track as the Athlete Zone returns following its successful debut at the Tampere 2025 European Athletics U20 Championships.
Developed as part of the European Athletics Race for Respect initiative, the Athlete Zone combines fun, learning and wellbeing in a welcoming environment where young athletes can relax, meet competitors from across Europe and take part in interactive activities centred around the values of respect, safeguarding, ethical behaviour, social media and online presence, and mental health and wellbeing.
Play, Learn and Connect
At the heart of the Athlete Zone is a simple idea: learning works best when it is interactive.
New for Rieti 2026, the Athlete Zone Podcast and the 'Own Your Lane' Social Media Workshop create opportunities for young athletes to discuss safe sport, fair play, digital wellbeing and building a positive online presence.
Learning through play remains central to the experience, with activities such as the Escape Game combining teamwork, problem-solving and safeguarding scenarios. Athletes can also relax in the Athlete Lounge, capture memories at the Photo Booth, enjoy creative activities or simply connect with competitors from across Europe.
On Friday, European Athletics President Dobromir Karamarinov visited the Athlete Zone, spending time with athletes, taking part in the activities and speaking with participants about their championship experience.
He also joined a special Athlete Zone Podcast alongside experts from the EBU Media Academy, highlighting the importance of safeguarding, health and mental wellbeing as essential elements of every young athlete's journey.
"I am very happy to see so many athletes, so many smiles and such a positive atmosphere," said Karamarinov. It is about building friendships, sharing great moments and creating memories that will last beyond the competition.
"Through the Athlete Zone, we are creating opportunities for young athletes to have fun and play, but also to learn, connect and openly discuss topics that are especially important at this stage of their journey.
"I am also delighted to see members of our youth community playing such an active role in delivering the Athlete Zone and gaining this international experience. They are not only helping to create a great atmosphere for our athletes, but also developing ideas and skills that they can take back to their own Member Federations."
Youth for Youth
The Athlete Zone continues to be built around the 'Youth for Youth' philosophy. This year, five young volunteers — Mikkel Hansen (Denmark), Lotta Elfenbein (Norway), Mariah Barbara (Malta), Stijn Severens (Belgium) and Liina Rohtla (Estonia) — played a key role in delivering the programme, leading activities and creating the welcoming, energetic atmosphere that made the Athlete Zone such a popular meeting place throughout the championships.
By empowering young people to take the lead, the Athlete Zone reflects European Athletics' commitment to giving the next generation a voice and creating a space where young athletes can learn from their peers as well as from experts.
Prizes and Gifts
Participants also have the chance to win a variety of exclusive prizes and Athlete Zone giveaways throughout the event, including tickets to the European Athletics Championships Birmingham 2026, as well as branded bracelets, hats, wristbands, T-shirts, socks, bags and phone holders.
More than just a place to visit, the Athlete Zone is a place to belong, bringing together fun, friendship, learning and respect to create an unforgettable championship experience, both on and off the track.