Thousands of athletes and enthusiasts have come together for the 2024 Chisinau Sports Festival, taking place Saturday at La Izvor Park.

Andrei Pavaloi, deputy head of the municipal Education Directorate, noted that allocations for sports have increased from 5 million lei to 20 million lei annually. “Today we are proud of you, we are proud of those who bring medals from abroad and spread the fame of both Chisinau and the whole country abroad”, said Pavaloi during the inauguration ceremony.

Deputy Mayor Ilie Ceban thanked the athletes who put in a lot of work for their achievements and also the coaches and parents supporting them. “I want you to encourage your children to become future champions”, added the deputy mayor.

Deputy Mayor Angela Cutasevici said she hopes that this festival will become a traditional one. For two years now, local authorities have been running programs to co-finance sports projects and programs that develop all sports events and support competing athletes.

Deputy Mayor Irina Gutnic urged everyone to do sport. The municipal administration encourages sports, because sport is not only about world records, but about perseverance and daily performance, she added.

During the event, there will be sports activities, entertainment activities, a fair with local products. The festival will culminate with a concert by Zdob si Zdub.