--- title: "Playing in Paradise: Seychelles Makes History with FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™" description: "The smallest nation in Africa is set to make a very big splash in international sports tourism as the Republic of Seychelles gears up to host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ from 1-11 May 2025." type: "NewsArticle" publisher: "Daily Maverick" site: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za" section: "Sponsored Content" author: "Tourism Seychelles" author_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/author/tourism-seychelles/" canonical_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-04-15-playing-in-paradise-seychelles-makes-history-with-fifa-beach-soccer-world-cup-2025/" published: "2025-04-15T12:00:34" updated: "2025-04-15T12:00:36" lang: "en-ZA" word_count: 845 --- # Playing in Paradise: Seychelles Makes History with FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ > The smallest nation in Africa is set to make a very big splash in international sports tourism as the Republic of Seychelles gears up to host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ from 1-11 May 2025. By Tourism Seychelles · Published 15 April 2025, 14:00 SAST · Updated 15 April 2025, 14:00 SAST ## Key points - As Seychelles gears up for its inaugural FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, it’s not just the sand and surf that are stealing the spotlight, but the promise of a sustainable paradise where sport meets postcard-perfect beauty. - Seychelles gears up to host its first FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, marking a historic sporting event for the island nation. - The tournament promises a vibrant celebration of culture and sport, with 16 nations competing across four groups. - Sustainability takes center stage as the ‘Paradise Arena’ is repurposed to minimize environmental impact and create a lasting legacy. - Beyond the games, visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Seychellois culture, cuisine, and eco-tourism experiences throughout the tournament. ## Content All eyes will be on the capital of Victoria, on the island of Mahé, as Seychelles seeks not only to host a successful tournament – but cement its reputation as a premier destination for sport, leisure and ecological wonder. In fact, Seychelles is an inspired choice. Home to some of the best beaches in the world (including Beau Vallon on Mahé, Anse Lazio on Praslin Island, and Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue), impossibly turquoise waters, steep granite cliffs and dense rainforests it provides an unforgettable backdrop – that seems plucked from a postcard. For many who’ve had Seychelles on their bucket list for years, this is the perfect time to design a holiday that not only ticks the box in terms of a dreamy island escape (including a luxury stay, soft sand, warm water swims, sunset cruises and cocktails around the pool) but includes the energy and excitement of a FIFA event! It is a first for Seychelles – and a tourism opportunity like no other. ### **A Tournament of Firsts** Not only is it the first FIFA tournament to be staged in Seychelles, but it’s also the first [FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup](https://seychelles.com/listingdetails/6759d235b9035a7890e1c1af)™ to be held in Africa. The official draw ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles on Friday, 4 April, hinted at what’s to come: a vibey, cultural celebration of sport, soccer and Seychellois spirit – with the official tournament anthem *Boom Se Se,*featuring Elijah Seychelles andTaniah, already released worldwide. Following the draw, sixteen nations will compete across the following groups: - Group A: Seychelles, Belarus, Guatemala, Japan - Group B: Mauritania, IR Iran, Portugal, Paraguay - Group C: Spain, Senegal, Chile, Tahiti - Group D: Brazil, El Salvador, Italy, Oman For the President of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan, this tournament represents far more than athletic competition. "This event symbolises the unity, the strength of spirit, and the resilience of our nation," he declared during the draw ceremony. "It's our commitment to promoting the global game of football in all its forms." ### **Sustainability at the Core** In the spirit of sustainability – and a nod to Seychelles’ commitment to environmental stewardship – FIFA’s Local Organising Committee has repurposed the ‘Paradise Arena’ used at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in the UAE last year, transporting it by sea to minimise carbon emissions, and placing it in Victoria to be used long after the tournament concludes. A lasting legacy for public use. This approach perfectly aligns with Seychelles' broader vision as a global leader in sustainable tourism. The island nation has long balanced its appeal as a luxury destination with rigorous environmental protection measures, preserving the natural beauty that makes it so alluring in the first place. ### **Beyond the Beautiful Game** For visitors lucky enough to attend, the tournament offers a rare opportunity to experience what Mrs Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, describes as paradise. "From the 1st to the 11th of May, Seychelles will not only host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup – it will welcome the world," she promises. The tourism authorities have curated immersive experiences around the tournament, showcasing authentic Creole culture, cuisine, and conservation efforts. Visitors can sample local delicacies, participate in cultural exchanges, and witness firsthand how Seychelles maintains its delicate balance between tourism development and environmental protection. ### **A Year-Round Sporting Paradise** The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ kicks off what promises to be an exceptional year for sports tourism in Seychelles. Adventure seekers should mark their calendars for Saturday, 23 August, when the second edition of the Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge returns. This 22 km technical trail run takes participants through the island's diverse terrains – from lush forests to rocky paths and coastal trails – offering both a physical challenge and unparalleled natural beauty. The route winds through iconic locations like Cap Ternay, Anse Major, and Mare aux Cochons, showcasing the rich biodiversity that makes Seychelles a haven for eco-tourism. "The Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge is an important step in our journey to elevate Seychelles as a leading destination for eco-tourism," explains Mrs Willemin. "We're committed to promoting sustainability while offering unforgettable experiences through our island's natural landscapes." ### **A New Chapter for African Sports Tourism** As Seychelles prepares for global attention, this moment represents a significant milestone for African sports tourism. The ability of this tiny island nation to secure hosting rights for such a prestigious event speaks volumes about its diplomatic acumen, strategic vision, and determination to lead in both sports and sustainable tourism. When President Ramkalawan extends his invitation to "savour beautiful Seychelles," he's offering more than just a sporting spectacle – he's inviting the world to discover an island paradise where sporting excellence (whether you’re talking beach soccer, trail running, diving or deep-sea fishing), cultural celebration, and environmental stewardship create a harmonious blend unlike anywhere else on Earth. For those fortunate enough to witness history in the making this May, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ promises not just a world-class event, but an immersive experience in one of the world's most breathtaking destinations. **DM**