As the world gears up for the Paris 2024 Olympics kicking off this July, excitement builds around the new sports added to the program: Climbing, Breaking, Kayak Cross and Skateboarding. But amidst the fanfare, a glaring omission has left many wondering: What about beach soccer?
Despite its global popularity and competitive history, Beach Soccer remains absent from the Olympic lineup. Beach soccer has been a staple of international competition since 1992, with the FIFA-backed Beach Soccer Worldwide (BSWW) governing the sport. It has been featured in various multi-sport events, including the European Games, World Beach Games and FIFA World Cup. With its fast-paced action, skilful plays, and audience packed settings, beach soccer has captivated audiences worldwide.
The Exclusion of Beach Soccer:
Despite its global following and competitive history, beach soccer is yet to be considered for Olympic inclusion. However, this exclusion has not dampened the spirit of the beach soccer community, with efforts from FIFA, BSWW, and many leading the charge for recognition, its inclusion in the Olympics is a matter of “when” rather than “if”. Recently, FIFA appointed Kasra Haghighi as Head of Olympic Futsal and Beach Soccer, a move which demonstrate commitment to strengthen the case for beach soccer. On the other hand, Joan Cusco President of BSWW has also been a driving force behind the sport’s growth and development, a key considering factor for the Olympic Dream.
Also Read: We want Beach Soccer to be Olympic by 2028” – Joan Cuscó
The Case for Beach Soccer:
Beach soccer offers everything the Olympics look for, excitement, skill, and global appeal. Its inclusive nature, with teams from over 70 countries participating in international events, aligns perfectly with the Olympic spirit. The sport also promotes beach culture, environmental awareness, and social responsibility.
According to the Olympic Charter, new sports can be included in the Olympic program through the following process:
- First, the International Federation (IF) governing the sport must be recognized by the IOC – a milestone beach soccer has already achieved through its governance by FIFA and Beach Soccer Worldwide (BSWW).
- Next, the sport must comply with the Olympic Charter, World Anti-Doping Code, and Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competition – requirements that beach soccer has consistently met through its adherence to FIFA and BSWW regulations.
- Thirdly, the Organising Committee of a specific edition of the Olympic Games can propose the inclusion of new sports or events to the IOC – an opportunity BSWW the governing body of beach soccer should continually explore.
- Finally, the IOC Session determines the sports program for each edition of the Olympic Games – given Beach Soccer’s growing popularity and growth globally, it is hoped that the IOC will soon recognise its Olympic potential and include it in the Olympic program.
With 140 national teams, 1.5 billion fans, and over 400 professional players globally, Beach Soccer has made a strong case for its inclusion in the Olympic program. A recent BSWW event, the Euro Winners Beach Soccer Cup showcased the sport’s immense popularity, featuring 198 games across men’s and women’s categories from 80 clubs over 10 days. The event was broadcast live for over 230 hours, garnering over 500,000 views, and generating over 3 million social media impressions.
A Bright Future:
While beach soccer may not be in the Paris 2024 Olympics, its exclusion only fuels the passion of its advocates. Beach soccer reflects the Olympic values, and its inclusion will only strengthen the Olympic movement. Let us continue to celebrate the sport’s achievements and look forward to the day when beach soccer’s Olympic dream comes true.
