Two days of virtual discussions took place on the current state of preparations for the student event, which is scheduled to take place between December 11 and 21 after COVID-19 caused a move from its planned slot in January.

Leonz Eder, the Acting President of the International University Sports Federation, gave an opening speech while Urs Hunkeler, the managing director of Lucerne 2021, said the COVD-19 situation in Switzerland is currently "very promising".

"With the Winter Universiade taking place in December 2021, we can offer participants an early highlight in the coming winter season," Hunkeler said.

"The vaccination campaign is making good progress and our authorities have signalled further reductions in the protective measures."

Topics covered at the meeting included anti-doping, venues, transport, food and accommodation.

Marcel Brönnimann, Lucerne 2021's head of delegation services, said the meeting was "very much appreciated" by those in attendance.

A second heads of delegation meeting is now due to take place in September, where an in-person visit to the host city and venues is planned.