From the moment Mark describes the journey, his passion is unmistakable. What started as a pub conversation after Spain’s debut at the Nations Cup in the UK has grown into Spain hosting the biggest walking football tournament the world has ever seen. With only one training session before their first international outing, Spain still reached the semi-finals — a testament to the spirit of the players. That success gave Mark and his colleagues the confidence to bid for the World Cup, and now, after years of hard work, it’s becoming a reality.
The tournament runs from 21st to 31st October 2025 and will welcome teams from across the globe in multiple age groups. What makes walking football so special, as Mark explains, is its inclusivity. You don’t need to be a professional — whether you’ve never kicked a ball before or you’re a lifelong fan, the sport is about fun, community, and staying healthy. From social games at local clubs to international competition, there’s a place for everyone.
At Upsticks, we’re especially proud to support the sport. We sponsor the away kit for Internacionales Mollina WFC, and it was through that connection that Spain Walking Football first discovered us. That partnership has since grown, and we’re delighted to be part of this incredible journey as sponsors of the World Nations Cup.
For people retiring in Spain, particularly those moving on a Non-Lucrative Visa, walking football offers a ready-made community, a way to keep active, and an opportunity to make new friends. It’s not just about playing; there are also ways to get involved in organising, supporting, or volunteering.
👉 To find out more and get involved, visit the Spain Walking Football contact page.
👉 You can also watch our full podcast episode here: https://youtu.be/p0Wgv2Y8SUI?si=s_5JZTsCGShpuuA8
Walking football is more than just a sport — it’s a new lifestyle that’s bringing people together across Spain. This October, Alicante will be its global stage.