Chengdu, China – the World Games 2025 beach handball tournament commenced on Thursday, August 7th, boasting what organizers are calling the most competitive field in the event’s history. Eight men’s and eight women’s teams are vying for the championship title, with matches scheduled through August 12th at the Xinglong Lake venue.

Giampiero Masi, chairman of the IHF Beach Handball Working Group, expressed his delight at the caliber of participating nations. “This is the strongest line-up we’ve had,” he stated, highlighting the presence of powerhouse teams from around the globe.

The men’s tournament features Brazil, five-time world champions, alongside Croatia, the reigning world Championships gold medalists, and Portugal, who secured bronze at the same competition. On the women’s side, germany, a two-time world champion, is expected to be a strong contender for a medal.

Masi emphasized the importance of spectator engagement for a successful event. “The most critical element for a successful event is the audience,” he said.”You can build a fantastic venue, but without spectators, it loses it’s soul. My main concern now is ensuring the stands are full, which creates atmosphere and energy for the players and makes the event a true success for Chengdu.”

Prior to the tournament’s start,Masi conducted a thorough inspection of the Xinglong Lake venue,praising the operational staff’s responsiveness and efficiency. “The venue is essentially set up according to our specifications. What impressed me most was the strong cooperation and swift response from the operational staff. If somthing needed fixing, it was adjusted rapidly,” he noted.

Organizers are also addressing the challenges posed by Chengdu’s recent heatwave, acknowledging its potential impact on player performance. Masi stated, “Beach handball is played in all weather, including rain. Managing these conditions will test both players’ willpower and team’s operations.”

Masi also highlighted China’s growing role in the sport. “china is an vital partner for us, serving as a model for developing beach handball,” he said, adding that Asia is rapidly closing the gap with Europe and South America in terms of competitive level, though long-term planning remains crucial for continued progress.

Beach Handball: A Rising Global Sport

beach handball is a dynamic and fast-paced variation of conventional handball, played on sand with two teams of four players (plus substitutes). the sport has gained critically important popularity as its inception in the 1990s, becoming an increasingly prominent fixture in international multi-sport events like The World Games. Its accessibility and exciting gameplay contribute to its growing appeal.

The International Handball Federation (IHF) governs the sport globally, overseeing international competitions and promoting its advancement worldwide. The first IHF Beach Handball world Championships were held in 2004, and the sport made its debut at The World games in 2001.

Historically, European and South American nations have dominated beach handball competitions, but Asian teams are steadily improving, demonstrating the sport’s expanding global reach. China’s investment in beach handball infrastructure and player development is a key factor in this trend.

Frequently Asked Questions About The world Games 2025 Beach Handball Tournament