As the European Athletics U20 Championships light up Tampere from 7–10 July, a vibrant new initiative is making its mark on and off the track: the Athlete Zone, a dedicated space designed by young people, for young people, as part of the European Athletics Race for Respect safeguarding campaign.
Located in the heart of Tampere 2025, next to the main tribune and mixed zone, close to the Market Square, the Athlete Zone is open daily from 9am to 9pm and offers a welcoming environment where athletes can connect, unwind, and explore key issues that matter both inside and outside the stadium.
The initiative aligns with the Race for Respect’s core mission: to promote safeguarding, human rights, and mental health and well-being across European Athletics.
What is the Athlete Zone?
The Athlete Zone is more than a chill-out area. It is an interactive and empowering space that blends fun, learning, and meaningful engagement. From the Escape Game that challenges players to explore safeguarding scenarios, to light-hearted activities like the Photo Booth and Tattoo station, every corner of the Zone is designed to spark curiosity and conversation.
Athletes can also test their knowledge through quizzes creating a unique mix of education and entertainment.
Built by Youth, for Youth
Central to the Athlete Zone is the concept of "Youth for Youth." Four specially appointed young volunteers - each experienced in youth-led projects will be on-site throughout the competition to run the space and interact with participants. Their presence ensures that the atmosphere is peer-driven, authentic, and relatable.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Athlete Zone brings to life the broader strategic vision from European Athletics: to empower young athletes, amplify their voices, and provide platforms for learning and advocacy.
It forms a vital part of the European Athletics Strategic Roadmap 2024–2027. European Athletics President Dobromir Karamarinov said: “Empowering the next generation means more than supporting performance—it means giving young athletes a voice, a space to grow, and a learning platform to explore the many topics that matter throughout their careers.
"The Athletes’ Zone is where fun, learning, and inspiration come together, bringing to life our shared vision for a modern, athlete-centred sport.
"This is the first-ever European Athletics Athletes’ Zone designed specifically for our youngest athletes, with topics tailored to their age, interests, and the values of European Athletics.
"Athletes’ feedback is important to us. Just as we encourage athletes to speak up, we must also be ready to listen and help, to use their insights to shape the future of our sport for the benefit of all stakeholders."
The Chair of Athletes’ Committee Lea Sprunger added: "I am delighted to see this wonderful initiative come to life during the European Athletics U20 Championships.
“It offers athletes a safe, fun, and educational space where they can truly engage. The topics being addressed are not only timely but also vital for the holistic development of every athlete. This is a crucial step toward a fulfilling career, both on and off the field.
Win Prizes, Make Memories
Participants in the European Athletics Athlete Zone also have the chance to win exciting gifts and even tickets to the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships.
Race for Respect is more than a competition-day campaign—it’s a year-round movement rooted in values of integrity, ethics, safety, and inclusion. The Athlete Zone in Tampere will help create a culture where every young athlete feels safe to be themselves-and safe to speak.