HAPPENING 27 NOV–14 DEC | ROTTERDAM, 24 May 2025 – Rotterdam is set to play a central role in the 2025 IHF Women’s Handball World Championship. The city will host every stage of the tournament, including the final at Rotterdam Ahoy.
Rotterdam to host all stages of 2025 Women’s Handball World Championship
Rotterdam will serve as a principal host city for the 27th edition of the IHF Women’s Handball World Championship, scheduled from 26 November to 14 December 2025. The tournament will be co-hosted by the Netherlands and Germany and will feature 32 national teams competing for the world title.
Rotterdam has been designated to host matches across all phases of the event – from the preliminary round to the final. The Dutch national team will play its group stage matches at home, ensuring strong local support. Matches will begin at Rotterdam Ahoy on 27 November and culminate with the semi-finals and final on 12 and 14 December respectively.
Shared hosting between the Netherlands and Germany
The championship will be split across five host cities. Alongside Rotterdam, the Netherlands will also host matches in ’s-Hertogenbosch. Germany’s host cities include Dortmund, Stuttgart and Trier. France, the reigning world champions, will play in Den Bosch, while Denmark, Olympic champions Norway, and the host nations are considered key contenders.
Each city has been assigned specific roles to balance logistical needs and local fan engagement. Rotterdam’s Ahoy Arena will serve as the venue for the semi-finals and final, underscoring its importance in the tournament’s structure.
Ahoy Arena to stage championship matches
Rotterdam Ahoy, the city’s flagship indoor arena with a capacity exceeding 10,000, will provide the setting for all matches hosted in Rotterdam. Known for its experience with major events, including concerts, sports championships and Eurovision 2021, Ahoy is equipped with modern facilities and is expected to deliver a strong spectator experience.
Dutch national team matches are expected to attract large crowds, particularly during the knockout stages. The final on 14 December is anticipated to take place in front of a full house.
Community and economic impact
The tournament is expected to have a positive impact on Rotterdam’s economy, particularly in hospitality and tourism. With tens of thousands of visitors anticipated, local businesses including hotels, restaurants and shops are set to benefit.
City officials view the event as an opportunity to strengthen Rotterdam’s position as a leading Dutch sports city. More than one million spectators attend sporting events in the city each year, and the handball championship is projected to add significantly to that figure.
Local involvement and sporting legacy
The event is being organised in collaboration with the Netherlands Handball Association (NHV), German Handball Federation (DHB), and city officials. Volunteers are being recruited to support the event across multiple areas.
Rotterdam’s role in the tournament is also intended to inspire young athletes. Schools and local clubs are expected to take part in handball-themed activities, while national players like captain Lois Abbingh hope the visibility of the event will drive new interest in the sport.
Accessibility and visitor information
Directions to Rotterdam Ahoy
Rotterdam Ahoy is located in the Charlois district at Ahoyweg 10. It is accessible via Metro Lines D and E, with Zuidplein station a short walk from the venue. Travel from Rotterdam Centraal takes around 15–20 minutes. The city encourages visitors to use public transport or bicycles due to expected congestion and environmental considerations.
Parking is available on-site, with pre-booking options. Additional shuttle buses may operate during major matches.
_large.jpg)
.jpg)
