TUI Socca World Championship Ignites Global Excitement as Cancún, Mexico Welcomes Inclusive Sport and Expands Tourism Opportunities

Published on December 1, 2025

After the resounding success of the TUI Socca Champions League held in October 2025 in Rethymno, Crete, the momentum of the sport continues to build as the International Socca Federation (ISF) and TUI strengthen their long-term collaboration. Their newest milestone is the launch of the TUI Socca World Championship in Cancún, Mexico, a destination renowned for its vibrant energy, world-class beaches and deep connection to global tourism.

Socca, recognised as one of the most widely played sports in the world, stands out for its inclusive spirit. One of its defining features is the open-access philosophy that eliminates entrance fees entirely, allowing fans of all backgrounds to enjoy matches freely. This approach positions the sport as a refreshing contrast to mainstream football events, where ticketing can be a barrier for many communities.

TUI Group CEO Sebastian Ebel commented: “We are very happy to connect tourism and Socca, bringing tourists and locals together in an electrifying atmosphere in the most beautiful holiday destinations around the world. The atmosphere in the TUI pop-up stadium is incredible. The TUI Socca World Championship embodies what TUI stands for – shared experiences, diversity and unforgettable moments that connect people from all over the world.”

“From the kickoff of the first match, the mood on the pitch and on the stands with fans cheering and celebrating has been amazing. This was once again proof that sport and travel together can create magical moments full of joy, respect and shared passion. That’s what football is all about and what we aim to further promote through our partnership with TUI”, said Thanos Papadopoulos, CEO of the International Socca Federation.

The international tournament began with an impressive celebration on 29 November, marked by a colourful opening ceremony that captured the festive essence of Cancún. Leading figures from the International Socca Federation joined regional authorities and representatives from TUI to formally commence the competition. The opening match set an exhilarating tone for the championship, with the Mexican national team achieving a commanding 3–0 victory over Belgium, igniting strong home support and elevating anticipation for the matches ahead.

Surrounding the innovative pop-up stadium, a dynamic fan zone enriches the championship atmosphere. This dedicated space offers spectators a chance to unwind between games, enjoy food and beverages, participate in activities such as foosball or simply soak in the breathtaking views of Cancún’s coastline. The area also includes dedicated TUI stands, where visitors can explore curated information about excursions, local activities and exclusive offers available throughout the region.

Beyond promoting destination experiences, TUI is utilising the global championship platform to connect with the local workforce. Representatives are actively sharing details about current employment opportunities, reinforcing the company’s commitment to increasing local hiring and strengthening integration with the communities it serves. TUI, alongside its hotel joint ventures RIU and Royalton, is a major regional employer and plays an influential role in supporting incoming tourism, while also expanding holiday options for the growing Mexican travel market.

The success of the Cancún championship reflects a broader strategy and an expanding global footprint for Socca. Preparations are already underway for future tournaments planned for 2026 in destinations such as Türkiye and Portugal, with further announcements expected soon. As enthusiasm for the sport spreads across continents, the partnership between the ISF and TUI continues to shape new opportunities for fans, athletes and local communities worldwide.

The TUI Socca World Championship in Cancún stands not only as a global sporting celebration but also as a vibrant cultural gathering that highlights teamwork, inclusion and international collaboration. Each match and event contributes to strengthening Socca’s identity as a sport rooted in community, accessibility and international unity—qualities that continue to attract millions of supporters around the world.