Figueira da Foz became the European capital of beach rugby once again with the 16th edition of the Figueira Beach Rugby | European Beach Rugby Festival. Over three intense days, the Figueira sands were filled with color, grit, and great excitement, proving that friendship and camaraderie remain the true winners of this prestigious tournament.
A festival without borders: 1,090 athletes on the sand
The event broke records yet again in terms of participation and international reach. In total, 1,090 athletes put on a show on the beach, spread across 72 teams — 48 in the men’s division and 24 in the women’s.
Multiculturalism was one of the strongest hallmarks of this edition, featuring delegations from 12 countries. In addition to a strong Portuguese contingent, the tournament welcomed players from Switzerland, Germany, France, England, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Bonaire, Ireland, San Marino, and the United States, cementing the festival as a global benchmark for the sport.
Three men’s divisions raise the competitive bar
One of the major novelties this year was the restructuring of the men’s competition into three distinct divisions: Pro, Elite, and Open. The organization’s decision proved to be a massive success, receiving extremely positive feedback from the teams. This new format not only balanced the matches but also significantly boosted competitiveness and excitement, delivering a high-level spectacle for the crowd.
Roll of Honor: The Champions of the Sand
The battle for the trophies was fierce from the very first to the last minute, crowning new champions across all categories and divisions. Here are the big winners of this edition:
Pro Division
- Men’s: 1st Place: CR Juromenha | 2nd Place: Sabbie Mobilli
- Women’s: 1st Place: Sport Rugby | 2nd Place: Piranhas da Luz
Elite Division
- Men’s: 1st Place: Royal Lions | 2nd Place: Origi Squad
- Women’s: 1st Place: Aldeia do Rugby | 2nd Place: Brussel Lobsters
Open Division
- Men’s: 1st Place: Barbare Riants | 2nd Place: Agrária Rugby
- Women’s: 1st Place: Vodka Grenadine | 2nd Place: Jeannekepis
Special Awards Beyond athletic performance, the tournament also recognized team integrity and creativity—core values that define the soul of this festival:
- Men’s Fair Play Trophy: Sabbie Mobilli
- Women’s Fair Play Trophy: Maitry
- Best Costume Trophy (Best Kit/Costume): BBRFC
The legendary “Third Half”: Where the party happens
As rugby tradition dictates, the action didn’t end with the referee’s final whistle. The “Third Half” of the Figueira Beach Rugby was once again unforgettable. The legendary sunset parties were the perfect meeting point for athletes and fans to share smiles, music, and the best good vibes, celebrating the core values of the sport in a relaxed and unique atmosphere.
The 16th edition of the Figueira Beach Rugby wrapped up with the promise of continuing to grow, leaving on the sand and in the hearts of everyone there the certainty that this is much more than a tournament—it is a celebration of life and rugby.
We are already looking forward to the 2027 Figueira Beach Rugby edition !
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