The Pelican Cup is one of the most exciting international beach volleyball tournaments, bringing together top teams from around the world. Named after the graceful seabird known for its spectacular diving, this tournament showcases the athleticism and skill of professional beach volleyball players. As part of the volleyball circuit, the Pelican Cup has grown in prestige since its inception.
History of the Tournament
First held in 2010, the Pelican Cup was created to promote beach volleyball in coastal regions. What began as a regional competition has evolved into a major international event on the ballsports calendar. Past winners include legendary teams from Brazil, the United States, and Germany, with Brazil dominating recent editions.
2025 Tournament Format
The 2025 Pelican Cup will feature 32 teams (16 men’s and 16 women’s) competing in a round-robin group stage followed by knockout rounds. Each match follows standard beach volleyball rules: best-of-three sets, with the first two sets to 21 points and the third (if needed) to 15. Teams earn ranking points that contribute to their world standings.
Venue and Dates
The 2025 edition will be held at the stunning Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro from August 15-25. This iconic location, which hosted volleyball during the 2016 Olympics, provides the perfect backdrop for world-class beach volleyball action. The tournament coincides with Rio’s famous summer festival season.
Teams and Players to Watch
Defending champions Álvaro Filho and Saymon Barbosa (Brazil) return to defend their title. Other top contenders include:
- Anders Mol/Christian Sørum (Norway)
- Tri Bourne/Trevor Crabb (USA)
- Paolo Nicolai/Daniele Lupo (Italy)
On the women’s side, watch for Brazilian stars Ana Patrícia/Duda Santos and American duo Sara Hughes/Kelly Cheng.
Prize Money and Ranking Points
The 2025 Pelican Cup offers $250,000 in total prize money, with the winning team taking home $40,000. The tournament awards valuable FIVB ranking points (1200 for winners) that help teams qualify for the World Championships and Olympic Games.
How to Watch
Fans worldwide can watch live coverage on major sports networks including ESPN, Eurosport, and Globo. The FIVB will also stream matches live on its official website and YouTube channel. Local spectators can attend matches for free on Copacabana Beach.
Why the Pelican Cup Matters
More than just another beach volleyball tournament, the Pelican Cup serves as an important benchmark for teams preparing for the 2028 Olympics. Its timing in August makes it a crucial test of form before the season’s major championships. The unique beach setting and festive atmosphere also make it a favorite among players and fans alike.
Tournament Innovations for 2025
The 2025 edition introduces several exciting changes:
- New LED court technology for enhanced viewing
- Expanded fan zones with player meet-and-greets
- Live DJ sets during timeouts and between matches
- Interactive mobile app for real-time volleyball scores and stats
Conclusion
The Pelican Cup 2025 promises to deliver world-class beach volleyball action in one of the sport’s most spectacular settings. With top teams, innovative features, and the electric atmosphere of Copacabana Beach, this tournament is a can’t-miss event for volleyball fans worldwide. Mark your calendars for August 15-25 to witness the next chapter in beach volleyball history.
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