The Turkish city of Erzurum has been named the first European Capital of Winter Sports for 2025, a new accolade within the Capitals category of ACES. This award highlights Erzurum as a leader in winter sports infrastructure, boasting some of the most modern and well-equipped facilities in Europe for disciplines such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.

Over the years, Erzurum has solidified its reputation as a host for major international competitions, including world and European championships in winter sports. Additionally, the city is committed to promoting sports beyond the competitive arena, developing social programs that bring snow sports closer to the entire population, particularly the youth, with the goal of fostering an active and healthy lifestyle.

This new ACES award is part of a series of recognitions aimed at promoting sports in various thematic areas, such as the European Capital of Cycling, the European Capital of Integration and Volunteering, the Mediterranean Capital of Sport, and the Euro-Atlantic Capital of Sport.

With its towering mountains and world-class infrastructure, Erzurum joins this exclusive group of cities that have demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting sports and social inclusion through physical activity.

With this distinction, Erzurum not only reinforces its position as a leading destination for winter sports, but also becomes a role model in using sports as a tool for social cohesion and sustainable development.