Sat. Sep 6th, 2025

Beach Volleyball Lights Up Paris Again: A Year After the Olympic Spectacle

A year after captivating the world with its iconic setting at the Eiffel Tower during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, beach volleyball is set to make a triumphant return to the French capital. From Friday, July 25, to Sunday, July 27, 2025, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), in collaboration with the City of Paris and the French Volleyball Federation (FFvolley), will host a three-day beach volleyball festival right in the heart of the city, at the historic City Hall (Hôtel de Ville).

Beach volleyball court near Eiffel Tower during Paris 2024 Olympics
The iconic Eiffel Tower stadium during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The temporary stadium set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower was a highlight of the Games, widely lauded by spectators and international press for its stunning location and vibrant energy. The Washington Post hailed it as “a towering achievement,” asserting that “no field, arena, or stadium in Paris – or anywhere else – shines brighter.” The Associated Press vividly depicted fans “waving baguettes, dancing the can-can, and singing along to music from a DJ,” transforming the 12,860-seat venue into “the hottest club in Paris.” The Wall Street Journal even labeled it “the greatest stadium on earth.”

View of beach volleyball stadium with Eiffel Tower in background
The electric atmosphere at the Eiffel Tower stadium.

The City of Paris intends to cement the festive and dynamic spirit of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games as an enduring legacy through an extensive summer sports program. A key feature of this program will be the installation of three beach volleyball courts on the forecourt of City Hall, available throughout the summer. From July 12 to August 20, both Parisians and international tourists can enjoy the beach volleyball experience daily from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time.

“This homage to the Games` most iconic venue, now situated in the very heart of Paris on the City Hall forecourt, will enable the public to discover and engage with the sport. Through our collaboration with the FIVB and FFvolley, visitors will also have the unique opportunity to meet Olympic athletes and rekindle the emotions of the Games, marking the first anniversary of the Opening Ceremony.”

— Pierre Rabadan, Deputy Mayor for Sports, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the River Seine

Rendering of beach volleyball courts at Paris City Hall
Artist`s impression of beach volleyball courts at City Hall.

Over the weekend of July 25-27, attendees are encouraged to participate in introductory volleyball sessions, enjoy recreational games on open courts, join family-friendly matches on mini-courts, explore a dedicated sport and art zone, and engage in various entertaining volleyball-themed activities suitable for all age groups.

People playing beach volleyball on a temporary court
Community engagement through beach volleyball activities.

Further elevating the excitement, the Brazilian gold medalists from Paris 2024 women’s beach volleyball, Ana Patricia Silva Ramos and Eduarda Santos Lisboa (Duda), along with French men’s beach volleyball player Arnaud Gauthier Rat and his new partner Téo Rotar, are set to revisit the Champs-de-Mars to recall the unforgettable moments of the previous summer.

Olympic gold medalists Duda and Ana Patricia
Olympic champions Duda and Ana Patricia Silva Ramos.

“Paris 2024 demonstrated unequivocally that beach volleyball and fan engagement deserve a place on the world’s most prominent stages. With the majestic Eiffel Tower serving as our backdrop and countless enthusiastic fans electrifying both venues, it was a moment that truly reimagined the sports experience. This summer, in partnership with our incredible collaborators, we are reigniting that excitement in the city`s core. Moreover, this event isn`t merely about observing the game; it’s an invitation to step onto the sand yourself. Everyone is welcome to experience the enchantment and join the festivities.”

— Fabio Azevedo, FIVB President

“It`s simply unforgettable what we experienced beneath the Eiffel Tower last summer. The immense energy and passion of the fans, the sheer beauty of that stadium – I will never forget it. And from what I’ve heard since, it’s not something others will forget easily either! Returning to Paris this year signifies a return to a place and a time that profoundly changed our lives. We are thrilled to relive that magic and share it with everyone.”

— Duda, Olympic Beach Volleyball Champion

Entry is completely free, and everyone is welcome. Whether you are a dedicated fan or new to beach volleyball, this is your opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the summer’s most anticipated and iconic sporting events.

By Jasper Thornfield

From his home in Leeds, Jasper has become the voice of grassroots volleyball across northern England. With a knack for spotting emerging talent, his columns highlight the journey from local clubs to national prominence. His conversational writing style and genuine enthusiasm make complex volleyball strategies accessible to casual fans.

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