As Seychelles takes centre stage in hosting the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025, the spotlight is not solely on the thrilling matches. Equal attention is being drawn to a vibrant space where culture, community and tourism come together – the FanZone. This unique venue is more than just a gathering point. It is a carefully curated environment that enhances the overall tournament experience while serving as a powerful tool for destination promotion and cultural exchange.
Strategically located near the match venues, the FanZone has been designed to complement the atmosphere of the World Cup with a relaxed beachside celebration. With a thoughtful layout that combines excitement and leisure, it offers structured activity areas for children, entertainment stages and culinary experiences that reflect the warmth and openness of Seychellois hospitality.
What truly sets the Seychelles FanZone apart is its deep integration of local identity. Cultural elements are present throughout the space – from traditional music and dance to arts, crafts and gastronomy. International and domestic visitors are offered an authentic taste of the islands. Seychellois artists and vendors are central to the experience, transforming the FanZone into a live showcase of the country’s creativity and providing meaningful economic opportunities for local communities.
Inclusivity, especially for families, has been a clear priority. With interactive play zones, game booths and the lively mascot, Tikay, children are not only accommodated but actively engaged. This helps create lasting memories for younger visitors and builds emotional connections with the destination. When children associate joy and wonder with a place, it contributes to long-term destination loyalty – a valuable asset for tourism development.
For those unable to secure tickets to the stadium, the FanZone offers an accessible and equally thrilling alternative. Giant screens show the matches live, allowing fans to enjoy the excitement in a communal setting. This reinforces the idea that sports tourism is not limited to the match venue – shared experiences beyond the stadium can be just as impactful.
Beyond entertainment, the FanZone is a strategic tool for tourism. It reflects a growing recognition that fan engagement spaces can showcase much more than just enthusiasm for sport. They are platforms to highlight hospitality infrastructure, safety standards, service quality and cultural depth. In this way, the Seychelles FanZone becomes a demonstration of soft power – bringing the country’s brand values to life through experience.
Local voices further highlight this impact. Shannice Hoareau, a Seychellois supporter attending her first match, said:
“I couldn’t get tickets to enter the stadium, but watching from the FanZone has been equally special. I’m so proud of how Seychelles is hosting this major event. Whether we win or not, we’ve already achieved something significant.”
Claudia Godley added:
“It’s very child-friendly and beautifully organised. What makes it even more powerful is how people from different places have come together. No politics, no religion. Just support and joy. It’s been an amazing experience.”
Bernadette Willemin, Director General of Destination Marketing, provided additional insights into the FanZone’s objectives.
“We’re seeing a large turnout from local communities across different age groups – from grandmothers to parents and children. The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup is also a family event,” she noted.
She described the tournament as a wonderful opportunity to share Seychelles with the world – welcoming tourists and official delegations who are enjoying the islands during this global celebration.
“We also have a pavilion where we interact with visitors, and there have been lots of enquiries from some of them,” Willemin said.
As the tournament continues, the FanZone plays a key role in shaping international perceptions of Seychelles. The country is not only a capable host, but a destination that understands the importance of experience design and cultural connection. Through the FanZone, Seychelles is offering a new standard for how fan engagement can create meaningful and lasting tourism impact.
