The much-anticipated Challenger Teqball League, organized by the International Federation of Teqball (FITEQ), is set to make its grand debut this weekend in Santarém, Portugal. This new tournament series, aimed at fostering grassroots development, promises an exciting blend of competitive Teqball and rich cultural experiences across some of Europe’s most picturesque cities.

FITEQ, in collaboration with its partners, began developing this innovative project in 2023 to create a platform where emerging Teqball talents could hone their skills and gain crucial experience. The Challenger Teqball League is designed for the players and national federations to learn and grow in their ability to host international events. Each competition in the league guarantees a minimum prize pool of 3,000€, with participants competing in at least three different categories.

The Challenger Teqball League will feature five events across four countries, each offering a unique combination of high-level Teqball and local cultural flair. The journey begins in the historic city of Santarém, Portugal, from August 30th to September 1st. Known as the "Capital of Gothic," Santarém will provide a stunning backdrop with its historic architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and the serene beauty of the Tagus River. As the final act of a packed Teqball summer season, the Challenger Teqball League - Santarém Cup with 58 Teqball players from 13 countries from 4 continents will set a high standard for future events.

In women's doubles, 9 pairs will face each other. Seven athletes representing Portugal, while Teqball players from France, Hungary, Spain, Italy and Lebanon will also step to the table. World silver medallists from 2023 Petra Pechy/Nora Vicsek (HUN) are the favourites, however Zsofia Dezsenyi - who triumphed at King & Queen of the Table along with Nanna Lind Kristensen - and European silver medallist in WS, Amelie Julian (FRA) mean a tough matchup. World championships fifth Silvia Ferrer Garcia (ESP) returns to Teqball after a successful recovery from a knee injury alongside Ana Gomez I Vila (ESP). Mara D'Allesandro (ITA) who lost in the bronze game in Kraków will also compete in women's doubles with her debuting compatriot, Eleonora Cunsolo.

Zsofia Dezsenyi (HUN) is one of the rising stars.

The biggest field can be found in the mixed doubles category where 22 twosomes will fight for the trophy at the Challenger Teqball League - Santarém Cup. Amelie Julian/Hugo Rabeux (FRA) have over 100 matches together which makes them the most experienced couple with multiple titles. Record champion Adam Blazsovics (HUN) and Petra Pechy started to play together with one goal: get Blazsovics' only missing title at the World Teqball Championships. However, at three international Teqball events where they competed, they never reached the final. In Portugal, Maria Chedid (LBN)/Nikola Mitro (SRB) and Nora Vicsek (HUN)/Marek Pokwap (POL) are both keen to prevent this from happening. The hosting country will be represented by 23 players in this category while Kuwait's and Senegal's best ones can be also found in MD.

Blazsovics/Pokwap's duo seems to be an interesting side whilst the three-time world champion Mitro teamed with Rabeux. Oleh Usychenko/Dmytro Sevhuk (UKR) can cause upsets while Mame Cheick Fam (SEN)/Samir Fadli (FRA) are one of the many dark horses of mixed doubles. 

"The Challenger Teqball League is more than just a series of tournaments; it is a strategic initiative by FITEQ to provide Tier IV and V tournaments, specifically designed for grassroots players and national federations to gain experience in hosting events," said Bela Muller, Head of Communications at FITEQ. "With a minimum of three categories organized at each event, participants will have ample opportunity to showcase their abilities and compete against peers from across the globe."

Muller emphasized FITEQ’s commitment to the growth of Teqball at all levels, stating that the Challenger Teqball League is a testament to the organization's dedication to providing platforms where players of all skill levels can thrive. "We’re excited to see the future stars of Teqball emerge from this league," he added.

As the first edition of the Challenger Teqball League kicks off this weekend, the Teqball community eagerly anticipates not only the competition but also the unique cultural experiences that each host city will offer. The league promises to be a milestone in the development of the sport, helping to shape the future of Teqball for years to come.