Dynamic New Athletics (DNA) is back! Clash of the Clubs IV has been confirmed for the 20-21 September in Leiria, Portugal bringing the summer season to a thrilling climax for Europe’s rising stars.
Following another packed summer of thrilling continental age-group championships including the Bergen 2025 European Athletics U23 Championships and the Tampere 2025 European Athletics U20 Championships, the spotlight will turn to U20 club competition.
A bold format
Dynamic New Athletics (DNA) is European Athletics’ bold new format that flips tradition on its head. With mixed-gender teams, fast-paced head-to-heads, every attempt counting, and a dramatic final relay called ‘The Hunt’ that decides the match in a nail-biting finish. It’s made for athletes. And made for fans.
Defending champions return
The defending champs Sparta Atletik og Løb (DEN) are back to defend their crown. Home favourites Juventude Vidigalense are ready to shine, with top clubs from 10 countries — including two from hosts Portugal — preparing for battle. Expect fierce rivalries, breakout performances, and unforgettable moments.
A prestigious home
Located just 90 minutes north of Lisbon, Leiria blends historic charm (yes, there’s a 12th-century castle) with modern athletics pedigree. The city has hosted major events like the European Throwing Cup (2022, 2023, 2024) and the inaugural 2009 European Athletics Team Championships. With sunny late-summer weather, it's the perfect stage for the season’s final curtain call.
Two days of intense competition includes mixed 4x400m relay, ten individual events (five men’s and five women’s) and ‘The Hunt’ - a thrilling mixed medley relay finale with staggered starts based on running totals.
The Clash of the Clubs IV will be live streamed on European Athletics platforms, with wall-to-wall social media coverage. In 2024, the Clash lit up Pombal with viral scenes of athletes dancing and trading kits post-race. Leiria is set to raise the bar even higher.
Over 600 athletes
Since its launch in 2019, DNA has already brought together over 600 U20 athletes from 15 countries. It’s more than a competition — it’s a celebration of youth, teamwork, and the future of European athletics. And the Clash is becoming the must-watch closer of the U20 season.
Whether you're cheering from the stands, tuning in online, or following the action on your phone, Clash of the Clubs IV promises a high-energy, youth-driven spectacle unlike anything else on the calendar.