In August 2025, Egypt will once again welcome the world as it hosts the Men’s U-19 Handball World Championship. From August 6 to 17, the tournament will take place in Cairo and the New Administrative Capital, bringing together the most promising young handball talents from across the globe.
This marks a major sporting moment for Egypt and for youth handball on the international stage. As the sport continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness, the 2025 edition is expected to deliver both high-level action and a glimpse into the future of international handball.
A Prestigious Tournament for Rising Stars
Organised by the International Handball Federation (IHF), the U-19 World Championship is a biennial tournament that features 32 national teams, each composed of players under the age of 19. These young athletes represent the next generation of elite talent, many of whom will go on to compete at senior World Championships or Olympic Games.
Previous editions of the tournament have introduced the world to stars who now headline top clubs in Europe and Asia. In 2023, Germany claimed the title after a dramatic win over Denmark, and several players from that squad now compete in the Bundesliga and EHF Champions League.
The 2025 edition promises to be just as competitive, with powerhouse nations like France, Spain, Egypt, and Croatia looking to dominate. Emerging handball nations, especially from Africa and South America, will also aim to surprise more established teams.
Egypt’s Role as Host Nation
Egypt has a proven track record of hosting major handball tournaments. After successfully organizing the Men’s Senior World Championship in 2021 and the African Men’s Championship in 2022, the country has positioned itself as a reliable and passionate host for the sport.
This year, matches will be split between Cairo — with its historic arenas and urban energy — and the New Administrative Capital, home to some of Egypt’s most modern sporting infrastructure. Fans can expect world-class facilities, strong media coverage, and large crowds, especially for Egypt’s matches.
The host nation’s youth team, which reached the semi-finals in 2019, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most talented. Playing on home soil could give them the extra edge needed to push for a podium finish.
Format and Schedule
The tournament runs over 12 days and includes a preliminary group stage, a main round, and a knockout phase leading to the final. Each team will play a minimum of five matches, offering young players valuable international exposure.
With 32 teams participating, the championship is not only a battle for medals but also an opportunity for countries to showcase their youth development programs.
What to Watch for in 2025
As excitement builds, here are the top reasons fans and scouts will be watching this year’s U-19 Handball World Championship:
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Breakout Stars – Many players will use this tournament as a launching pad to professional careers in Europe’s top leagues
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Tactical Innovation – Youth coaches often experiment with fast-paced offensive systems, making matches unpredictable and thrilling
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Intense Rivalries – Expect high-energy clashes between traditional powerhouses like France, Germany, and Spain
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Egypt’s Home Advantage – The local crowd could play a decisive role in Egypt’s performance
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New Contenders – Nations like Brazil, Tunisia, and Japan are rapidly improving and may upset the usual favourites
Beyond the Court
The championship also plays a broader role in promoting handball in developing regions. The IHF uses such tournaments to build awareness, improve youth coaching standards, and inspire local participation in the sport.
For Egypt, the tournament aligns with its national vision to boost sports tourism and position itself as a leader in African and Arab sports development. Local businesses, hotels, and tourism sectors are expected to benefit from the influx of international visitors.
The 2025 Men’s U-19 Handball World Championship is more than just a youth tournament — it’s a showcase of the sport’s future. With intense competition, rising stars, and passionate fans, this edition has all the ingredients to become one of the most memorable yet.
As Egypt opens its doors to the world of handball, the focus will not only be on winning but on celebrating the next generation of talent, teamwork, and international spirit.