10 November 2026
Universidad del Salvador (USAL)
The Centre for Olympic Studies and Research at the University of Deusto, officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has taken part in a range of academic, scientific and institutional activities in Argentina, as part of an international exchange programme organised in collaboration with the University of Salvador (USAL). This initiative has helped to strengthen the ties between the two institutions and to promote the exchange of knowledge and experience in the fields of the Olympic Movement, research and sports science.
One of the main academic activities took place as part of the Licenciatura en Actividad Física y Deportiva de la Universidad del Salvador at the University of Salvador, where a session was delivered to students taking the Research Methods subject. During the event, the Centre’s main areas of research were presented, along with its contribution to the study, dissemination and promotion of the Olympic Movement. The event gave students an insight into university research applied to the field of sport and highlighted the importance of scientific research in understanding the current challenges facing sport and the Olympic movement.
At an institutional level, the exchange programme included a visit and various collaborative initiatives with the Argentine Olympic Committee (COA), which provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and strengthen ties between the university sector and Olympic organisations. This initiative forms part of the Centre’s commitment to establishing international cooperation networks that contribute to the advancement of scientific and academic knowledge relating to sport.
The trip also provided the opportunity to attend the 20th World Basque Pelota Championship, held in Buenos Aires from 15 to 24 October 2026. Taking part in this international competition provided a first-hand insight into one of the most significant events on the calendar for this sport, which is particularly significant due to its historical and cultural links with the Basque Country.
As part of this international academic outreach, the Centre plans to take part in the 3rd University Congress on Sports Science and Physical Education, organised by the Inter-American Open University (UAI) in Rosario on 23 and 24 October. This congress brings together professionals, lecturers and researchers to share experiences and scientific advances, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and the creation of new opportunities for cooperation in the field of physical activity and sports sciences.
International mobility presents a new opportunity to consolidate the University of Deusto’s presence within international academic and sporting networks, thereby strengthening the role of its Centre for Olympic Studies and Research as a forum for the generation and transfer of knowledge, the promotion of Olympic values, and collaboration between universities and sporting organisations.
The Centre would like to express its special thanks to the University of Salvador for its hospitality and cooperation, particularly to Damián Sabelli, Head of the Physical Activity and Sport degree programme; Mercedes Pombo, academic secretary of the Faculty of Medicine; Flavio Virgara, head of Cooperation; Dr Martín Cornut, deputy academic secretary; and María José Scalone, director of Health Disciplines.
Our thanks also go to all the teaching staff and professionals at the University of Salvador who have contributed to the organisation of the activities and to the enrichment of this international experience, highlighting the value of university cooperation in promoting research, education and the dissemination of the values of the Olympic Movement.
