The 2025 FIVB U21 Beach Volleyball World Championships officially launched this week in Cholula, Mexico, bringing together over 90 pairs from 50 nations in a thrilling global beach volleyball showdown. This marks the first-ever time Mexico hosts the prestigious tournament, and only the third time the event is staged in the NORCECA region, following previous editions in Canada.
Event Overview
Running from October 15 to 19, the tournament begins with qualification matches to determine the final additions to the 32-team main draw in both the men’s and women’s divisions. The competition format follows a structured path:
- Qualification Round – Wednesday
- Round-Robin Pool Play – Thursday to Saturday
- Knockout Rounds – Leading into medal matches on Sunday
Men’s Division Highlights
Noteworthy entries in the men’s competition include:
- Latvia’s Gustavs Auzins and Kristians Fokerots – reigning U19 world champions.
- Poland’s Jakub Krzeminski and Szymon Pietraszek – former U19 champions beginning in qualifiers.
- Antonio Lares and Carlos Andres Ayala (Mexico) – local favorites excelling on the NORCECA Tour.
Women’s Division Standouts
The women’s field showcases a mix of returning medalists and new pairings:
- Leona Kernen (Switzerland) – seeking her first gold after bronze and silver finishes at past U21 events, now paired with Muriel Bossart.
- Sofia Izuzquiza (Spain), Sally Perez and Sarah Wood (USA), and Ruby Sorra (Canada) – all former U19 podium finishers with new partners.
Global Significance
Celebrating its 20th edition, the U21 Beach Volleyball World Championships continue to be a premier proving ground for future Olympians and elite athletes. Nations like Brazil consistently dominate, holding the highest medal totals at this level, while Mexico leverages its host role to grow national interest in beach volleyball.
Fans can enjoy live coverage of all matches via the official Beach Volleyball World YouTube channel.
