Prince Daniel of Sweden becomes patron of Women's EHF EURO 2016

The qualification is still underway with four rounds left to play, and one of the few competition decisions being made already is that hosts Sweden will play their opening match in Stockholm in Group A on 4 December next year.

However, as the championship hits the "One year to go"-mark this Friday, the local organising committee had one big announcement to make, as it was revealed that that Prince Daniel of Sweden will be the official patron for the EHF EURO 2016.

"We are honoured that Prince Daniel has accepted to be patron of the EURO in Sweden. It means very much for both the championship and European handball," says Frank Ström, CEO of the EHF EURO 2016 Organising Committee in Sweden.

The championship's slogan is "Pure heart. All hands." and reflects the passion and bond among the handball players and fans.

"Prince Daniel's inspiring community engagement for sports and entrepreneurship is very suitable with what we want to communicate with the EHF EURO in Sweden," says EHF EURO 2016 marketing manager Matilda Boson, herself a former international and EHF EURO 2010 silver medallist.

"Our ambition is to inspire youngsters to live a more active lifestyle and show how passion for sports can serve the community."

Photo credit: Anna-Lena Ahlström/the Royal Court, Sweden