The 1981 European Cup was the 8th edition of the European Cup of athletics. It was the last edition to feature multiple stages of competition before being replaced by the promotion/relegation system since 1983.
The "A" Finals were held in Zagreb, Yugoslavia. The first two teams qualified for the 1981 IAAF World Cup.
Held in Zagreb on 15 and 16 August.
The winners qualified for the "A" final.
Men<br> Held on 1 and 2 August in Athens, Greece
Women<br> Held on 2 August in Pescara, Italy
All semifinals were held on 4 and 5 July. First two teams qualified for the "A" final (plus Yugoslavia as the host). Places 3âÂÂ4 (plus Greece as the host) qualified for the "B" final.
Semifinal 1<br> Held in Lille, France
Semifinal 2<br> Held in Helsinki, Finland
Semifinal 3<br> Held in Warsaw, Poland
All semifinals were held on 5 July. First two teams qualified for the "A" final (plus Yugoslavia as the host). Places 3âÂÂ4 qualified for the "B" final.
Semifinal 1<br> Held in Bodø, Norway
Semifinal 2<br> Held in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Semifinal 3<br> Held in Frankfurt, West Germany
First three teams advanced to the semifinals.
Held on 20 and 21 June in Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
Held on 20 June in Barcelona, Spain