The International Fistball Association (IFA) has announced a significant restructuring of the IFA Fistball Club World Cup, demonstrating its commitment to innovation, athlete well-being, and the sustainable growth of the sport. The new format will be fully implemented in 2027, following a transitional event planned for 2026 to align the competition more closely with existing continental championships.
The restructuring follows an extensive consultation process led by the IFA Sports Commission, with contributions from continental sports commissions and the IFA Athletes’ Commission. The 2025 IFA World Tour Finals, scheduled to take place from 24 to 27 July in Vöcklabruck, Austria, will proceed under the current format and will not be impacted by these changes.
“With the 2025 World Tour on pause, we have taken this opportunity to realign the World Cup format and emphasize the importance of continental competitions,” said IFA President Jörn Verleger. “The new format announced today applies specifically to 2026. With the World Tour restarting in 2027, top teams from its rankings will once again be eligible to qualify.”
Overview of the 2026 Format
Beginning in 2026, the IFA Fistball Club World Championship will feature six teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions, with qualification based exclusively on continental championship results:
- Europe and Pan-/South America: The 1st and 2nd place teams will qualify.
- Africa, Asia, Oceania, or North America: One continental champion will qualify, based on participation metrics such as the number of teams and nations.
- Host Nation: Will receive one team slot.
In the event that a qualified team is unable to participate, a replacement team may be invited.
“This new format ensures a competitive and diverse field,” said Gastao Englert, Chairman of the IFA Sports Commission. “The Club World Cup will continue to crown the top club teams in global fistball and stand as one of IFA’s premier international events.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
In preparation for 2027, a dedicated task force led by Gastao Englert, along with experienced club representatives and former World Tour event organizers, is developing a revitalized framework for the IFA World Tour and its integration with the Club World Championship qualification system.
“Thanks to the deep experience of the commission members, we are confident that we can create a strong future for the World Tour,” said Englert. “Our objective is to integrate the top-performing teams from the Tour into the Club World Championship, enhancing both the competitive level and the global visibility of the sport.”
For more information, please visit: ifa.sport
