Torrevieja Welcomes the 2025 Walking Football World Nations Cup: A Global Stage for Sport adn Community
International Tournament Kicks Off at Torrevieja Sports City
Torrevieja has become the focal point of the walking football world as the city hosts the 2025 Walking Football World Nations Cup from October 21 to 31, drawing teams and fans from every continent for a milestone party of sport, inclusivity, and healthy ageing.
The tournament, taking place at the modern facilities of Torrevieja Sports City, marks a notable event on both the local and international sports calendars. More than 120 teams from over 45 countries have arrived in the coastal municipality to compete across several categories, including men’s Over 50s, 60s, and 70s, as well as Ladies Over 40s, 50s, and 60s.
The event opened with a spirited match in the Ladies Over 40s category between Japan and Spain, highlighting the diversity and growing popularity of walking football. England, France, Australia, and the Czech Republic are among the participating nations, reflecting the sport’s expanding global influence.
A Tournament with Community Spirit
Torrevieja’s hosting of the World Nations Cup is being lauded by organisers and officials as evidence of the city’s commitment to promotion of an active lifestyle and intergenerational inclusion. Walking football-a version of football (soccer) played with rules mandating that participants walk rather than run-emphasizes teamwork, accessibility, and enjoyment over competitiveness, making the sport especially popular with older adults.
Spectators are welcome with free admission to all matches. The City Council and local collaborators have organized a festive program for visitors, featuring food stalls, live entertainment, and cultural stands where fans can engage with participants from diverse backgrounds. The event is described locally as a “celebración del deporte y la fraternidad” (celebration of sport and fellowship),and the city aims to foster a vibrant,welcoming atmosphere throughout the ten-day tournament.
Daily Matches and schedule
The competition is structured into two phases:
- October 21-24: Group stage matches for Men’s Over 50s, Men’s Over 70s, and Ladies Over 40s.
- October 28-31: Group and finals matches for Men’s Over 60s,Ladies Over 50s,and Ladies Over 60s.
quarterfinal and final rounds will decide the champions in each category on October 31. For those unable to attend in person, live streams and replay highlights are being made available on the official Spain Walking Football website and corresponding social media channels.
Impact on Local Tourism and Business
Organisers report a surge in local hotel reservations and restaurant activity, as teams are accompanied by their supporters and families. torrevieja’s distinctive hospitality and seaside charm have been praised by visiting delegations, who cite the city’s mild October climate and modern infrastructure as key to the event’s success.
The Deputy Mayor of Torrevieja, in a statement to Spanish media, described the tournament as “una oportunidad para mostrar nuestra ciudad al mundo y promover un estilo de vida saludable entre todas las edades” (an possibility to showcase our city to the world and promote a healthy lifestyle for all ages).
Walking Football in Spain and Beyond
Originally developed in England, walking football has steadily grown in Spain under the name fútbol caminando. The sport is governed by rules adapted to reduce physical strain:
- Running is penalized with a free kick to the opposition.
- Sliding tackles are prohibited.
- The ball cannot be kicked above head height.
This format allows older adults-often in their 60s,70s,or beyond-to remain active,form social connections,and participate in the joy of team sports,an effort described locally as “envejecer activo” (active ageing).
For International and Local Audiences
Torrevieja’s position as an international host strengthens its brand as a cosmopolitan and inclusive destination on the Costa Blanca, attracting visitors not just for its beaches and climate but for its cultural and sporting events.
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“This tournament is not just about sport; it’s about community, health, and the joy of coming together with people from around the world. we are proud to welcome everyone to Torrevieja,” stated a spokesperson for the event.
Sources
- Euro Weekly News: https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/10/21/torrevieja-hosts-the-2025-walking-football-world-nations-cup-a-global-celebration-of-sport-and-community/
- Spainwalkingfootball.com: https://spainwalkingfootball.com/nations-cup-2025/
- Diario Información: https://www.informacion.es/vega-baja/2025/10/20/torrevieja-sede-mundial-futbol-caminando-94276847.html