Touch Football International Events and European Championships
Touch Football is a dynamic global sport governed by the Federation of International Touch (FIT). To foster competition and growth, FIT organizes and sanctions a variety of representative events that bring together the best athletes from across the globe, ranging from youth development to masters divisions.
Key Facts
- FIT is the governing body responsible for sanctioning major international Touch Football tournaments.
- The Touch Football World Cup is the premier global event for the sport.
- The Trans Tasman Test Series is a prestigious recurring competition between Australia and New Zealand.
- European Touch Championships have been held consistently across various European nations since 1996.
Major International Representative Events
The international calendar is filled with high-stakes competitions designed to showcase talent across different age groups and regions. These events provide a platform for national teams to compete for global and regional dominance.
Global and Regional Tournaments
The most prominent events include the Touch Football World Cup and the Youth Touch World Cup, which serve as the pinnacle of achievement in the sport. Regionally, the Asian Touch Cup and the European Touch Championships (commonly referred to as "the Euro's") allow athletes to compete within their respective continents.
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Specialized and Multi-Sport Competitions
Beyond the primary world cups, FIT sanctions several other significant events. The Trans Tasman Test Series is a storied rivalry between Australia and New Zealand, featuring Open, Youth, and Senior divisions. Additionally, Touch Football is represented in larger multi-sport gatherings such as the Pacific Games and the World Masters Games.
For the next generation of athletes, the European Junior Touch Championships (the "Youth Euro's") provide a critical pathway for developing talent within Europe.
The European Touch Championships History
The European Touch Championships have a rich history of rotating hosts, promoting the sport across the continent. Since the first recorded event in Halifax, England, in 1996, the tournament has visited numerous cities and countries.
| Year | Host City | Country/Region |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Vichy | France |
| 2022 | Nottingham | England |
| 2018 | Nottingham | England |
| 2016 | Jersey | Channel Islands |
| 2014 | Swansea | Wales |
| 2012 | Treviso | Italy |
| 2010 | Bristol | England |
| 2008 | Massey | France |
| 2006 | Edinburgh | Scotland |
| 2004 | Jersey | Channel Islands |
| 2002 | Cardiff | Wales |
| 2000 | Edinburgh | Scotland |
| 1998 | Nottingham | England |
| 1996 | Halifax | England |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which organization sanctions international Touch Football events?
The Federation of International Touch (FIT) is the body that organizes and sanctions these representative events.
What is the Trans Tasman Test Series?
It is a competitive series played between Australia and New Zealand, featuring divisions for Open, Youth, and Senior players.
Where was the most recent European Touch Championship held?
The 2023 European Touch Championships took place in Vichy, France.
Are there specific events for younger players?
Yes, FIT sanctions the Youth Touch World Cup and the European Junior Touch Championships (Youth Euro's) specifically for youth athletes.
In which countries have the European Touch Championships been hosted?
The championships have been hosted in England, France, Scotland, Wales, Italy, and the Channel Islands.