Figueira da Foz hosts six days of world university beach sports
Around 600 athletes, coaches and officials from 30 countries are in Figueira da Foz for beach soccer, volleyball, handball and wrestling from 17 to 22 September.
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Archived 12 September 2026The championship brings an unusual international programme to the city and is likely to make the central seafront busier than on an ordinary September weekday.
- Competition runs from 17 to 22 September after the opening ceremony on 16 September.
- The programme includes men's and women's beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach handball and beach wrestling.
- Around 600 athletes, coaches and officials from 30 countries are expected.
- Match times and results can change during a tournament, so check the current event programme before making a special journey.
What is happening in Figueira da Foz
The FISU World University Championship Beach Sports begins competition on 17 September and continues until 22 September. Its opening ceremony took place at the Torre do Relógio on the evening of 16 September.
The event combines four sports in one championship: beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach handball and beach wrestling. Men's and women's competitions are included in each discipline.
Why the city will feel different this week
Organisers expect around 600 student-athletes, coaches and officials representing 30 countries across five continents. The competition therefore brings more than spectators to the seafront: teams, event staff and scheduled matches will also shape how busy the area feels.
If you are visiting for another reason, allow extra time near the central beach and Torre do Relógio. September is outside the busiest part of summer, but a multi-day international event can still affect parking, cafés and the easiest route across the seafront.
Choose the sport and day before travelling
The official event service carries the general schedule, match results and livestream information. Use the latest programme to identify the sport and session you want rather than assuming all four competitions run continuously in the same place.
Weather and competition progress can affect a beach tournament. Recheck the programme on the day, especially before travelling from Coimbra, Leiria or another town specifically for one match.
What you can do now.
- 01
Choose the sport and day you want to see.
- 02
Confirm the current match time before leaving.
- 03
Allow extra time for parking or use public transport where practical.
- 04
Check the Figueira da Foz weather and coastal conditions on the day.
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