Istanbul will host the European Games in 2027. The decision was taken after careful consideration following the presentation of a comprehensive evaluation report to the Executive Committee by EOC Sport Director Peter Brüll. The report followed a visit to Istanbul by a delegation of EOC experts in early March.

EOC President Spyros Capralos said: "The EOC is delighted that Istanbul's bid to host the 2027 European Games has been approved. This is great news for European athletes and for the city. Istanbul and Turkey have long been good friends of international sport and Istanbul has woven sport into the fabric of everyday life for the benefit of its citizens. We know it will be the perfect place for Europe's best athletes to shine in 2027."

After the third edition of the Games in Krakow-Malopolska in 2023, the EOC and the Istanbul organisers want to expand the event by offering more qualification places for the next Olympic Games, which will be held in Los Angeles in 2028. The Turkish city won't have to build any additional facilities specifically for the European Games beyond those already under construction. 

The Executive Committee of the European Olympic Committees will present its decision to the General Assembly of the EOC in Bucharest next June for final approval and the signing of the relevant contracts.