The Federation of Capitals and Cities of Sport (ACES) has signed a major Protocol Agreement with the European Olympic Committees (EOC), marking a new era of collaboration between the two institutions in their shared mission to promote sport, health, and Olympic values across the continent.

The agreement, signed by Gian Francesco Lupattelli, President of ACES Europe, and Spyros Capralos, President of the European Olympic Committees, establishes a strategic framework for cooperation to encourage the spread of sporting culture, participation in physical activity, and to inspire European citizens — especially young people — to lead healthy and active lives.

“This agreement represents a significant step forward for ACES and for all European cities that believe in the transformative power of sport,” said President Gian Francesco Lupattelli. “Working together with the EOC means aligning directly with the Olympic Movement, strengthening our mission to build healthier, more inclusive, and more active communities.”

EOC President Spyros Capralos stated:
“The EOC is delighted to partner with ACES, an organisation that shares our commitment to using sport as a powerful bridge to connect communities through social cohesion, youth engagement, and healthy lifestyles. Together, we will work to inspire the next generation of active citizens across Europe.”

Through this partnership, ACES and the EOC will collaborate on initiatives, conferences, and sports events — particularly within the European Capitals of Sport — to promote the social, educational, and cultural values of sport. The agreement also reaffirms both organisations’ commitment to good governance, equality, and the protection of athletes, in full alignment with the principles of the Olympic Charter and the European Commission’s White Paper on Sport.

This collaboration follows a series of institutional partnerships established by ACES with leading global organisations such as UNESCO, UN Tourism, and the Organization of American States (OAS) — consolidating ACES’ role as an international reference point in the promotion of sports policies, health, and social cohesion through local governments.