The 2025 edition of The World Games marks a major milestone in the sport of fistball. For the first time in the event’s history, both the Men’s and Women’s competitions will feature eight teams each, achieving full gender equality. Teams from four continents—Europe, South America, Oceania, and North America—will participate, making it the most globally diverse and expansive fistball competition in World Games history.
The host city Chengdu, China, will welcome the world’s best fistball nations from 9th to 13th August, with the medal matches closing out the competition on the final day. All eyes will be on the Gold Group, where the traditional powerhouses of the sport reside—no nation outside this elite group has ever claimed a World Games medal.
The World Games 2025 Fistball Tournament is not just about competition—it’s about growth, equality, and global celebration. With history on the line and a global audience watching, Chengdu is set to deliver the most thrilling edition of fistball the world has seen.
Women’s Tournament:
Gold Group: Brazil, Germany, Switzerland, Austria
Silver Group: Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, USA
Can Germany defend their 2022 gold, or will Brazil confirm their status as world leaders?
The women’s competition is entering the second edition at The World Games, after debuting in 2022. Germany won that inaugural title in a thrilling final against Switzerland. However, momentum has shifted. Brazil enters Chengdu as reigning World Champions, having claimed the crown in November 2024 by defeating Germany by 4-0. Switzerland and Austria bring depth and experience, and the group stage promises fierce battles. In the Silver group, debutants Argentina and Chile aim to gain valuable experience on the global stage. New Zealand enters the competition with a promising 7th position at the World Championships, while Team USA is seeking their first victory in World Games history.
Men’s Tournament:
Gold Group: Germany, Austria, Brazil, Switzerland
Silver Group: Chile, Argentina, Italy, New Zealand
Can Germany handle the pressure of defending their title against a strong field of challengers?
The Men’s lineup features familiar faces—and one new team. New Zealand makes its first-ever appearance at the World Games, joining a competitive Silver group. Germany, the defending champions from Birmingham 2022, bring a younger roster to Chengdu. Their generational shift will be tested immediately against perennial rivals Austria, Brazil, and Switzerland—each of whom has legitimate gold medal aspirations. These four have consistently stood atop the podium in past competitions, with all medals to date being shared among them. Chile, Argentina, and Italy will need exceptional performances to break into this elite circle. A semifinal spot for any Silver group team would be a major upset—and a historic breakthrough.
What to watch for?
Emerging Nations: With new teams like New Zealand and Argentina entering the stage, the global development of fistball is on full display. How will these nations fare against established World Games veterans?
Gold Group Showdowns: Every match in the Gold Groups (both Men’s and Women’s) promises world-class action. The group stage results could shape the entire tournament trajectory.
Medal Race Predictions: Expect tight battles between Germany, Brazil, Austria, and Switzerland in both categories. The medal games could mirror recent World Championship finals or throw up surprises.
