Benidorm Becomes Volleyball Capital During Veterans World Cup Week

world Veteran Volleyball Championship 2025,attracting teams from 45 nations and boosting the local economy.">

October 14, 2025

Benidorm, Spain, recently concluded a landmark week, playing host to the IVVA World Veteran Volleyball Championship 2025. The competition welcomed teams originating from 45 different countries, igniting five days of spirited competition, international camaraderie, and festive celebrations. This event has firmly cemented Benidorm’s reputation as a premier destination for Volleyball and Beach Volleyball, catering to both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs.

A Sporting Spectacle Across Iconic Venues

The matches unfolded across three distinguished locations: Playa de Poniente, benidorm’s dedicated beach volleyball arena; the Raúl Mesa Pavilion, a tribute to the celebrated Olympic athlete and championship promoter; and the Palau d’Esports l’Illa de Benidorm. Throughout the week, the city served as the global hub for veteran sports, welcoming over a thousand athletes and their accompanying supporters.According to a recent report by the International Trade Center, sports tourism contributes considerably to the economies of coastal cities like Benidorm, generating substantial revenue and employment opportunities.

Weather Challenges Overcome, Competition Thrives

Despite a prevailing weather advisory impacting the coastal region, the championship proceeded without interruption. Indoor events were held as scheduled,while beach volleyball matches originally planned for Friday were successfully relocated to Saturday,benefiting from Benidorm’s renowned sunshine. This demonstrates the city’s resilience and preparedness in managing potential disruptions,maintaining a seamless experience for all participants.

Triumphs, Emotions, and Local Pride

The medal presentation ceremony was graced by the presence of javier Jordá, the Councilor for Sports; vicente Fuster, CEO of the Lope de Vega International School; Ramón González, the general coordinator of the Benidorm Beaches Volleyball Club; and Arturo Ruiz, President of the Valencian Volleyball Federation.

nati Algado, the first deputy mayor of Finestrat, extended her congratulations to Rebeca Fernández, President of the Finestrat Volleyball Club, who secured a silver medal in beach volleyball. This achievement underscored the talent and dedication within the local sporting community.

International Competition and Notable Results

The championship showcased a highly competitive atmosphere, wiht participants representing a diverse range of nationalities. Teams from Germany and Canada emerged victorious in the women’s indoor category,while Italy,ukraine,and poland claimed the top spots in the men’s divisions. In total,150 Volleyball matches and over 500 Beach Volleyball matches were played,with representation from nations like Poland,Brazil,Slovakia,and the Czech Republic.

Category	Women’s Champion	Men’s Champion
Indoor Volleyball	Germany	Italy
Beach Volleyball	Canada	Ukraine & Poland

“This event is a source of immense pride for our club and the city of Benidorm,” stated Raúl Mesa, president of the Poniente Benidorm Beach Volleyball Club. He extended gratitude to the City Council,the IVVA,and its President,Adam Kubala,alongside sponsors such as Servigroup,the Lope de Vega International School,and the Valencian Volleyball Federation. He also commended the dedication of municipal officials and volunteers, whose contributions were pivotal to the tournament’s success.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

The IVVA World Veteran Volleyball Championship is estimated to have generated an economic impact of nearly two million euros for benidorm, significantly boosting hotel occupancy and garnering substantial international media coverage. This further solidifies the city’s standing as a leading destination for sports tourism. The organizing committee has expressed strong satisfaction with the event’s execution and is actively exploring the possibility of hosting future editions. The Poniente Benidorm Beach Volleyball Club has submitted a bid to host the 2026 championship, aiming to increase participation capacity by 30% following the rapid sell-out of 850 places just a month and a half in advance.

The success of the IVVA 2025 championship underscores Benidorm’s capabilities as a premier venue for major international sporting events, seamlessly blending technical excellence, warm hospitality, and a stunning coastal environment.

The Growing Trend of Veteran Sports

The increasing popularity of veteran sports reflects a broader societal trend towards active aging and lifelong fitness. According to the World Health Organization, regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and well-being at all ages. Events like the IVVA Championship not only provide competitive opportunities but also foster a sense of community and encourage a healthy lifestyle among older adults. What role do you believe sports play in promoting active aging within your own community?

Did You Know? Veteran sports are experiencing a surge in participation globally, with a reported 20% increase in registered athletes over the past five years.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Championship

• What is the IVVA World Veteran Volleyball Championship? It is an international competition for volleyball players aged 40 and older.
• Where was the 2025 championship held? The championship was held in Benidorm, Spain.
• How many countries participated in the 2025 championship? Teams from 45 countries participated.
• What is the economic impact of the championship on Benidorm? The event generated an estimated two million euros for the local economy.
• Will Benidorm host the championship again? The city is bidding to host the 2026 championship.
• what makes Benidorm a good location for volleyball competitions? benidorm provides excellent facilities, a pleasant climate and a welcoming atmosphere.
• How can I learn more about Veteran Volleyball? Visit the International Veteran Volleyball Association (IVVA) website for details on events and registration.

What are your thoughts on the increasing importance of sports tourism for cities like Benidorm? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!

what is the projected number of teams and countries participating in the 2025 Veterans Volleyball World Cup?

A Surge in Sports Tourism: The 2025 Veterans Volleyball World Cup

Benidorm, Spain, is experiencing a notable boost in sports tourism as it hosts the 2025 Veterans Volleyball World Cup. From October 12th to 18th, the city transforms into a hub for competitive volleyball, attracting players and spectators from across the globe. This event isn’t just a sporting competition; it’s a showcase of Benidorm’s capabilities as a world-class sports destination and a vibrant cultural experience for all involved.The influx of visitors is providing a considerable economic impact for local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to retail shops and transportation services.

Tournament Details & Participating Teams

The 2025 Veterans Volleyball World Cup features several age categories for both men and women, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition.

* Age Divisions: Typically, thes tournaments include divisions for 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+, 55+, 60+, and 65+ age groups.

* Expected Participation: Over 120 teams representing more than 20 countries are anticipated to participate, making it one of the largest veterans volleyball events globally. Key participating nations include Brazil, Germany, Italy, USA, and Argentina, alongside strong representation from across europe.

* Venues: Matches are being held across multiple venues in Benidorm, including the Palau d’Esports l’Illot, and several beach volleyball courts along the iconic Levante and Poniente beaches. This distributed approach allows for greater spectator access and showcases the city’s beautiful coastline.

* Competition Format: Teams are divided into pools for initial round-robin play, followed by knockout stages culminating in the championship matches.

The Economic impact on Benidorm

The Veterans Volleyball World Cup is a significant economic driver for Benidorm. The event’s impact extends far beyond the tournament venues.

* Hotel Occupancy: Hotel occupancy rates have surged during the tournament week,with many hotels reporting near-full capacity. This provides a crucial boost during the shoulder season.

* Restaurant & Bar Revenue: Local restaurants and bars are experiencing increased patronage from players, coaches, and spectators.

* retail sales: Shops and businesses in the city center are benefiting from increased foot traffic and spending.

* Transportation Services: Taxi services,bus routes,and car rental companies are seeing a rise in demand.

* estimated Economic Contribution: Preliminary estimates suggest the tournament will contribute over €3 million to the local economy.

Benidorm’s Growing Reputation as a Sports Tourism Destination

Benidorm has been strategically investing in its sports infrastructure and actively promoting itself as a premier sports tourism destination. This event is a testament to those efforts.

* Palau d’Esports l’Illot: The Palau d’Esports l’Illot, a modern multi-sports arena, is a key asset in attracting large-scale sporting events.

* Beach Volleyball Facilities: Benidorm’s pristine beaches and well-maintained beach volleyball courts are ideal for hosting international competitions.

* Accessibility: The city’s excellent transportation links, including Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, make it easily accessible for international visitors.

* Accommodation Options: Benidorm offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-amiable apartments.

* Other Sporting Events: Benidorm regularly hosts other sporting events, including triathlons, marathons, and cycling races, further solidifying its reputation as a sports hub.

Beyond the Court: Exploring Benidorm

While the volleyball tournament is the main attraction, visitors are also taking the possibility to explore Benidorm’s many attractions.

* Beaches: Levante and Poniente beaches are renowned for their golden sands and clear waters.

* Old Town (Casco Antiguo): The charming Old Town offers a glimpse into Benidorm’s history and culture, with narrow streets, traditional tapas bars, and the iconic church of Santa María.

* Benidorm Island: A short boat trip from the harbor takes you to benidorm Island, a protected natural reserve with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.

* Terra Mítica: This popular theme park offers thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.

* Sierra Helada Natural Park: Hiking trails in the Sierra helada Natural Park provide stunning views of the coastline.

Supporting the Veterans Volleyball Community

The Veterans Volleyball World Cup isn’t just about competition; it’s about celebrating the passion and dedication of athletes who continue to play the sport they love.

* promoting Active Lifestyles: The event promotes active lifestyles and encourages people of all ages to stay fit and healthy.

* Fostering Camaraderie: The tournament provides a platform for players from different countries to connect and build friendships.

* Showcasing Veteran Athletes: The event highlights the skills and athleticism of veteran volleyball players, demonstrating that age is no barrier to sporting achievement.

* Future Events: Organizers are already planning future events to build on the success of the 2025 World Cup, further cementing Benidorm’s