On that April morning, Belgrade was not only the capital of Serbia, but also the capital of European football. On April 3, 2025, the renovated Sava Center opened its doors to delegations from all over Europe, welcoming the 49th regular UEFA Congress and thus confirming its status not only as an architectural icon, but also as a political and sports center of the region.
In the elegant corridors and halls that combine history and contemporary design, more languages were spoken than ever before in those days, but the message was common: football is more than a game. He is a connection, a vision and a responsibility.
The day when Belgrade became the host of Europe
In one place, on the same day, the presidents and general secretaries of all 55 UEFA member national football associations met. They brought with them agendas, decisions and challenges, but what connected them was a passion for sport that unites continents, societies and generations.
During the congress, elections were held for new members of the UEFA Executive Committee and the FIFA Council, new vice-presidents and treasurer of UEFA were appointed, and honorary membership fees were awarded to those who have left a deep mark on the development of European football.
But behind every formal vote, there was something more - a vision of the future of European sports. They discussed fair play, investments in infrastructure, the development of women's football, the role of digital platforms in the transformation of the spectator experience and the global responsibility that UEFA has today.
Sava Centar: The host who lives up to the moment
Not by chance, an event of this level was held in the Sava Center. After a reconstruction worth 120 million euros, this center today represents a point of reference for the organization of international gatherings. The combination of top technical conditions, sophisticated interior, impeccable logistics and geographical accessibility of Belgrade makes it a logical and worthy choice for the host of the biggest European events.
It was during the UEFA Congress that the Sava Center showed how the space can seamlessly support the weight of a historic moment, providing a dignified, modern and professional platform for decision-making that affects millions of people across Europe.
