Hammamet, Tunisia’s iconic coastal city, is preparing to make waves as it gears up to host the opening leg of the highly anticipated 2025 IHF Beach Handball Global Tour. Known for its golden beaches, Mediterranean charm, and strong sporting spirit, Hammamet is poised to deliver a world-class event that will set the tone for the tour’s global journey. Scheduled for early 2025, the event promises not just top-tier beach handball action, but also a celebration of international sportsmanship, local culture, and Tunisia’s growing role on the world handball stage.
The IHF Beach Handball Global Tour, launched by the International Handball Federation (IHF), has quickly become a highlight of the global sporting calendar. Bringing together elite national teams and rising stars from across the globe, the tour showcases the dynamic, fast-paced, and entertaining variant of handball that thrives on sand. With stops in multiple countries throughout the season, the tour aims to boost visibility and participation in beach handball while giving fans around the world a chance to experience the sport up close.
Hammamet’s selection as the host city for the throw-off event is no coincidence. The city has earned a reputation for organizing successful international competitions, including previous beach handball tournaments, volleyball championships, and youth sports festivals. Its picturesque coastline, temperate climate, and well-developed tourism infrastructure make it an ideal venue for beach sports. Local organizers, in collaboration with the Tunisian Handball Federation and the IHF, are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations to ensure the event kicks off with energy, excitement, and professionalism.
The 2025 edition of the tour marks a significant evolution in the sport’s global profile. Beach handball has grown in popularity thanks to its fast rhythm, acrobatic goals, and vibrant atmosphere. The 2023 and 2024 editions drew record audiences, both in person and online, and the Hammamet throw-off is expected to build on that momentum. This year’s format will feature expanded participation, with more national teams and a broader representation from all continents. Both men’s and women’s divisions will compete in a round-robin and knockout format, ensuring high-level competition from day one.
Beyond the action on the sand, the Hammamet leg of the tour promises to be a vibrant cultural celebration. Organizers have planned a series of events and activities that will allow athletes and visitors to experience Tunisia’s unique heritage. From traditional music performances and artisan markets to guided tours of the historic Medina and beachside fan zones, the tournament aims to blend sport with culture, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
One of the standout features of the Hammamet event is its focus on youth engagement and sustainability. Local schools and sports clubs will be involved through outreach programs, clinics, and junior tournaments running alongside the main competition. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of Tunisian beach handball players and to promote healthy, active lifestyles. Environmental responsibility is also a central theme, with organizers implementing eco-conscious practices such as reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and working with local environmental groups to protect the beaches and marine ecosystem.
From a competitive perspective, fans can expect thrilling matches as powerhouses like Brazil, Croatia, and Spain return to defend their legacies, while up-and-coming nations like the USA, Tunisia, and Egypt look to make a strong statement. The tournament will also serve as a crucial stepping stone toward the 2026 IHF Beach Handball World Championships, giving teams a chance to assess their development and fine-tune strategies.
With global media coverage, strong local support, and the IHF’s backing, Hammamet is not just hosting a tournament — it’s setting a standard. The opening throw-off in Tunisia is more than a sporting event; it’s a showcase of what beach handball can offer in terms of athletic excellence, cultural exchange, and community impact.
As the countdown begins, excitement is building in Hammamet and beyond. The city is ready, the teams are preparing, and fans around the world are marking their calendars. When the 2025 IHF Beach Handball Global Tour launches from Tunisia’s sun-drenched shores, it will be with energy, passion, and a spirit of global unity. Hammamet is ready — let
the games begin.
