“Passion and sport through time” unites action with knowledge and culture

The exhibition about the history of winter sports at the Torino State Archives, the institutional hub of the Torino 2025 FISU World University Games will open on 10 January.

The are, by definition, the celebration of passion for sport combined with passion for knowledge and culture. The value of history, of the wisdom of those who have preceded us and formed the roots of our knowledge, is expressed in a journey through time, from the past to the future of the Games, through the present.

This is where the exceptional exhibition “Passion and sport through time” set up at the State Archives – the institutional and reception hub for delegations and the public during the Games – celebrates the evolution of winter sports, highlighting their impact on global culture and the history of the Universiade (the former name of the FISU World University Games).

The origins and the evolution of a unique event

It is a narrative journey through unique objects that tell the origins and evolution of the event. It starts with the original brazier, symbol of the first editions of the Universiade, to explore historical relics and medals that testify to the event’s glorious past. The journey culminates with the evolution of the Torch design, of the medals and the Torino 2025 logo, offering a fascinating look at innovation and tradition. The project has been realised thanks to the precious contribution of CUS Torino, the Politecnico di Torino and the Accademia Albertina. 

The Director of the Archives, Dr. Stefano Benedetto, said: “The history of the FISU World University Games began in Torino in 1959. The torch of knowledge starts from Torino. History and knowledge, a combination united since the origins of the Games to the values of healthy and fair sports competition, represent the essence of the institutional mandate of the State Archives. We therefore enthusiastically welcome the exhibition “Passion and sport through time” also to reaffirm that our Institute is not an ivory tower, but an open place that lives and breathes to the rhythm of the City”.

Communities shaped by a common passion

Also related to the concept of wisdom is the open-air exhibition in Piazza San Carlo “Passion and sport through time”: an extraordinary exhibition tracing the journey of winter sports from their origins to today’s high-tech competitions, exploring how passion for these activities has shaped communities, inspired athletes and united nations. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or just curious, this exhibition offers an immersive journey through time, illustrating how winter sports have gone beyond simple fun to become a global celebration of perseverance, skill and unity. 

The exhibition will be inaugurated on 10 January at 10h, with the opening of the FISU Village in Piazza Castello, and will be open free of charge every day from 10h to 18.h0 from 10 to 23 January.