Prishtina, 9 July 2025
Kosovo is the host and organizer of the 2025 European Esports Championship, where 36 teams will compete. The Acting Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, attended the opening ceremony of the event, which is being held at the “1 October” Hall in Prishtina, from today until July 13.
In his speech, Prime Minister Kurti expressed pride that Kosovo is hosting such an event.
“Of course, as in any other sporting event, winning matters. Every athlete has pursued excellence with passion and dedication. But the true power of this championship lives beyond the scoreboard — in the connections we build, the stories we share, and the community we create together,” he said.
The Prime Minister went on to emphasize that Kosovo is a place where talent grows rapidly, and that our youth embody the power of vision and commitment. He added that their skills and passion — both in sports and in technology — create a strong foundation, making Esports a natural expression of the spirit and potential of our country.
“The European Championship, Kosovo 2025, stands as a significant moment — not just in Esports, but in what it represents for our region and beyond. Here, on this stage, we witness how players from different countries and backgrounds come together with a common purpose, driven by respect and teamwork. This is exactly what the world needs today: unity rising above chaos, collective effort rising above individual boundaries, and ideas that build bridges instead of walls,” said the Prime Minister.
The first opening match of the championship will be between the Republic of Kosovo and the Czech Republic. The championship is organized by the Esports Federation of Kosovo with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports.
Full speech of Prime Minister Kurti:
Gamers, guests and friends — from Kosova and across Europe — it’s an honor to have you here all.
Welcome to Kosova! Welcome to Prishtina!
We’re proud to host world-class players, international and local guests, ministers and ambassadors, fans and youth gathered here today, celebrating the spirit of electronic sports.
Certainly, as in any other sporting event, yes, winning matters. Every athlete here has chased excellence with passion and commitment. But the true power of this championship lives beyond the scoreboard — in the bonds we build, the stories we share, and the community we create together.
Kosova is a place where talent grows quickly and ambition moves even faster. From athletes on the field to developers behind the screen, our young people embody the power of vision and dedication. Their skills and passion in both sport and technology create a strong foundation, making Esports a natural expression of our country’s spirit and potential alike.
I understand that for some, Esports might still need an introduction, explanation, or in some cases it still raises doubts, or even opposition. But here in Kosova, Esports is woven into our story. Long before Esports had a name, Counter-Strike 1.3, 1.5, and 1.6, were more than just entertainment. They were ways to connect, challenge ourselves, push beyond limits and dream bigger.
Today, in the time we live in, we recognize Esports industry’s power and potential as a driving force in technology, innovation, and the future of digital culture. Who thinks differently may delay the change, but won’t be able to hold it back.
Therefore, I believe now is the time to embrace the sports value that Esports embodies — teamwork, discipline, commitment, training, as a foundation for developing educational and growth-oriented policies that will help us responsibly guide and regulate our engagement with technology.
The European Championship, Kosova 2025, stands as a milestone — not just in esports, but in what it represents for our region and beyond. Here, on this stage, we witness how players from different countries and backgrounds come together united by common goal, driven by respect and teamwork. This is exactly what the world needs today: unity that rises above chaos, joint effort that rises above individual limits and ideas that build bridges instead of walls.
Now, while we’re here in Prishtina, enjoy the vibe of our city and the warmth of our hospitality.
Here at the “1 Tetori”, “First of October”, hall, with the stage set and players geared up, we’re all looking forward to the matches. Enjoy every moment, respect the game, and carry this experience with you.
Për komunitetin e Esporteve në Kosovë, për fansat dhe publikun, gjatë këtyre ditëve, le të mbështesim me zemër djemtë tanë të Kosovës!
Let the best team take the crown! Ju faleminderit shumë! Thank you very much!
