As Seychelles prepares to host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup from May 1 to 11 this year, the event is poised to catapult the idyllic island nation onto the global tourism stage, with the eyes of the world – and the lenses of international media – firmly fixed on its white sand beaches and pristine turquoise waters.

The tournament brings together 16 of the world’s top beach soccer nations, divided into four groups:

• Group A: Seychelles, Japan, Guatemala, Belarus

• Group B: Brazil, Portugal, Oman, Mexico

• Group C: Iran, Spain, Tahiti, Argentina

• Group D: Senegal, Colombia, Italy, USA

This historic edition marks the first time the Beach Soccer World Cup is being hosted in Africa, and Seychelles is seizing the opportunity to showcase its natural beauty, rich Creole culture, and sustainable tourism credentials to the world.

For Seychelles, the tournament is more than a sporting milestone – it is a statement of national resilience, unity, and global ambition. In his opening remarks at the official draw in Victoria, Mahé, His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawanreflected on the symbolic and strategic importance of hosting such a prestigious international event:

“This is a great day for Seychelles, and a great day for Africa. As the world watches, we invite you not only to enjoy the competition but also to discover the many treasures of our islands.”

“This event represents more than just a tournament. 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,” H.E. Ramkalawandeclared. 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, speaking at the draw via video link, described the 2025 edition as “a tournament of many firsts”.

“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 praised the collaborative efforts of the Seychelles authorities, particularly the Seychelles Football Federation, led by President Elvis Chetty, for their dedication to the planning and execution of the event. He also spotlighted FIFA’s sustainability agenda, highlighting a unique infrastructure approach 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. This structure has been transported by sea to Seychelles, positively impacting the tournament’s carbon footprint, and will remain in Seychelles for public use as part of the legacy.”

Already renowned for its exclusivity and breathtaking beauty, Seychelles expects a significant surge in global media attention, with broadcasters, content creators, and journalists from all over the world descending on the islands to cover both the matches and thereby promoting the destination.

For the Seychelles Tourism Department, the tournament presents a once-in-a-generation platform to elevate the country’s global visibility and further diversify its tourism portfolio. Mrs Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, emphasised the fusion 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 added that the tournament is closely tied to broader tourism campaigns centred on sustainability, cultural immersion, and healthy living – values that speak to both Seychellois citizens and environmentally conscious travellers.

To capitalise on the global spotlight, special travel packages, cultural events, and immersive tourist experiences are being curated around the tournament. The Local Organising Committee is working in close collaboration with Tourism Seychelles to ensure visitors explore beyond the matches – from island-hopping and hiking to Creole cuisine tastings and marine conservation tours.

With the Beach Soccer World Cup, Seychelles isn’t just hosting a tournament – it’s taking centre stage. And when the final whistle blows, the island nation hopes to be remembered not only as a world-class sporting host but also as one of the most desirable travel destinations on Earth.