31 Nations, One Beach: The 2026 World University Championship Beach Sports is about to begin!

Figueira da Foz will host the FISU World University Beach Sports Championship from September 16–22, 2026. Around 600 sports agents — student-athletes, coaches and officials — from 31 nations across five continents will compete for world titles in four disciplines: Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Beach Handball and Beach Wrestling, each with men’s and women’s events. For six days the coastal city will become a hub of international university sport.

The event officially opens on September 16, with an Opening Ceremony at 6 p.m. at the city’s landmark Clock Tower (“Torre do Relógio”).

FADU Portugal’s and the Organizing Committee’s president, Diogo Salgado Braz, called the event a major milestone for national university sport, describing it as a sign of Portugal’s organizational capacity and its higher education institutions on the international stage. He noted that hosting 600 sports agents from five continents in Figueira da Foz reflects the strength of the university sport movement and FISU’s confidence in the partnership. He said organizers are committed to giving all student-athletes a memorable experience built around sporting excellence and community spirit.

The championship also strengthens ties between the university sector and the municipality, aligning with the growth of the University of Coimbra’s campus in Figueira da Foz (CUCFF), which focuses on teaching, research and the “blue economy.” The event offers a chance to connect the international student community with the city.

A highlight comes on September 20 — International University Sports Day (DIDU) — which this year coincides with the competition. FADU is preparing a special program to mark the occasion with participants and the academic community. Sign up here.

The event is a joint effort by FADU Portugal, the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the University of Coimbra, the Municipality of Figueira da Foz, and the Coimbra Academic Association, with support from the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ) and Turismo de Portugal.