In a moment that marks a turning point in the history of African sports and tourism, The Seychelles Island is set to host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™, becoming the first African nation to stage this globally acclaimed tournament. Scheduled to run from May 1–11, 2025, in Victoria, Mahé, this unprecedented occasion not only elevates the archipelago’s sporting stature but also offers an extraordinary opportunity to reinforce Seychelles’ reputation as a premier tourism destination.
The official draw ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles (ICCS) on Friday 4th April, defined the road/path to glory for the 16 teams. The vibrant event, infused with the island’s spirit, saw the unveiling of the official FIFA Beach Soccer anthem, “Boom se se,” with electric performances by Elijah Seychelles featuring Tania, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Group A: Seychelles, Belarus, Guatemala, Japan
Group B: Mauritania, IR Iran, Portugal, Paraguay
Group C: Spain, Senegal, Chile, Tahiti
Group D: Brazil, El Salvador, Italy, Oman
Key leaders from FIFA, the Government of Seychelles, the Seychelles Football Federation, and the tourism sector gathered to articulate a shared vision—one that goes far beyond football.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in a video message, described the 2025 edition as “a tournament of many firsts.” He elaborated:
“It is the first FIFA tournament to be staged in Seychelles and the first FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup to be held in Africa. This idyllic country will provide a stunning backdrop for players, coaches, officials, and fans from around the world.”
Infantino commended the collaborative efforts of Seychelles authorities, particularly the Seychelles Football Federation led by President Elvis Chetty, for their dedicated planning and execution. He also spotlighted FIFA’s sustainability agenda, highlighting an innovative approach to infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy for the host nation.
“In keeping with FIFA’s commitment to sustainability, we will use the same stadium as we did in Dubai last year,” Infantino noted. “This structure has been transported by sea, positively impacting the tournament’s carbon footprint, and will remain in Seychelles for public use as part of the legacy.”
For Seychelles, the tournament is more than an athletic milestone—it is a statement of national resilience, unity, and global ambition. In his opening remarks, President Wavel Ramkalawan reflected on the symbolic and strategic importance of hosting such a prestigious international event:
“This event represents more than just a tournament,” he declared. “It symbolizes the unity, the strength of spirit, and the resilience of our nation, as well as our commitment to promoting the global game of football in all its forms.”
HE. Ramkalawan also paid tribute to the coordinated efforts of local and international stakeholders, stressing the transformational potential of the event:
“We have coordinated efforts to tackle challenges head-on and drive forward our preparations. I extend special thanks to President Gianni Infantino, whose vision for making football truly global has brought this World Cup to the place many call paradise—the Seychelles.”
As the smallest nation on the African continent, Seychelles’ ability to secure hosting rights testifies to its proactive diplomacy, strategic focus, and aspiration to lead in both sport and tourism.
For the Seychelles Tourism Department, the Beach Soccer World Cup offers an unrivaled opportunity to elevate the country’s global visibility and diversify its tourism portfolio. Mrs Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, emphasized the dual benefits of sports diplomacy and destination marketing.
“From the 1st to the 11th of May, Seychelles will not only host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup—it will welcome the world. It is promised to be fun. Seychelles awaits you,” she said.
Mrs Willemin further explained that the tournament is central to broader tourism campaigns focused on sustainability, cultural engagement, and healthy living—core values that resonate with both the Seychellois population and environmentally conscious travelers.
Tourism authorities are curating a series of immersive experiences around the tournament, from showcasing authentic Creole culture and cuisine to promoting eco-tourism and marine conservation. The official poster—evocative of vintage postcards—offers a glimpse of the island nation’s identity: a blend of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant communities, and celebratory beach football.
The tournament’s impact extends beyond match days. A comprehensive volunteer program—offering more than 20 functional roles in media, logistics, protocol, and hospitality—invites local participation and skills development.
Private sector partnerships are also playing a critical role. Nouvobanq, a prominent Seychellois financial institution and Official Supporter of the tournament, is among those championing national pride and operational success.
As the countdown continues, the Seychelles is fully ready to deliver a tournament that merges world-class sport with cultural celebration and economic opportunity. With its pristine natural settings, warm hospitality, and meticulous preparations, the island nation is ready to welcome fans, officials, and visitors from around the world.
In his final remarks, President Ramkalawan extended a heartfelt call to the international community:
“I invite the world to savor beautiful Seychelles.”
The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ is more than a championship. It is a catalyst for tourism innovation, a tribute to African excellence, and a milestone in global football history—with Seychelles, the jewel of the Indian Ocean, at its heart.
