Prohibited Items
To ensure the safety, comfort and fairness of all participants at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games, clear and binding regulations apply to the carrying of items at all venues. These safety guidelines serve to protect all spectators, athletes and staff. Access to the event venues is only possible after a successful security check. In the event of violations, the organisers reserve the right to deny access, to immediately expel persons from the premises or to cancel admission tickets without refund. Please inform yourself in advance about the applicable regulations and follow the instructions of the security staff on site.
Spectators who are visibly under the influence of alcohol or drugs, wearing face coverings that obscure identity (outside of medical or cultural reasons), or who behave violently or in a manner that threatens public order will not be permitted to enter the venue.
Items Strictly Prohibited Across All Venues
The following categories of items are not allowed at any competition venue. These restrictions are in line with safety protocols and venue regulations.
Weapons of any kind
including firearms, knives, sharp tools, and items that can be used as projectiles or for self-defense (e.g. pepper spray)
Pyrotechnics
such as fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, powder, sparklers, or similar
Glass containers
including bottles, jars, or any fragile item made of breakable material that could cause injury
Large umbrellas
especially stick umbrellas that cannot be collapsed
Poles and flag sticks
regardless of material or size
Laser pointers and selfie sticks
- due to safety and visibility concerns
Oversised bags
any bag larger than A4 size (210 x 297 mm) is not permitted. All bags are subject to inspection.
Offensive or political materials
such as signs, posters, emblems, or clothing that express racist, xenophobic, extremist, antisemitic, or politically provocative messages
Illegal drugs
as defined by the German Narcotics Act (BtMG). Their possession or use is strictly prohibited.
Alcohol
no alcoholic beverages may be brought into venues
Animals
with the exception of certified guide or assistance dogs, approved in advance by the venue or event operator
Large drink containers
plastic bottles, containers, or Tetra Paks over 500 ml are not permitted unless for medical reasons
Additional Restrictions for Opening and Closing Ceremonies
For the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, security measures are more restrictive:
Only for Opening Ceremony: No containers larger than 250 ml
No containers larger than 250 ml are permitted, and only if they contain water.
No food items
No food items may be brought in, unless medically necessary, and then only in small quantities for personal consumption.
No helmets
You are not allowed to bring helmets of any kind.
Entry Process and Enforcement
All spectators will go through a security screening. Any prohibited item must be disposed of before entering. There are no official drop-off or storage facilities at any venues. If you're unsure whether an item is allowed, it is safest to leave it at home.
Security staff may refuse entry to anyone in possession of banned items or behaving inappropriately. In such cases, the ticket will not be refunded or reinstated.
Depending on the ticket type, please remember to read the ticket when you leave the venue. This way you can also visit other venues.
For specific venue exceptions or updates, refer to the venue information pages.