Hungary started the sectorball qualifiers to the WC2026

The qualification campaign for the X. ITFC World Table Football Championship officially began in spectacular fashion with the 2026 Szili Balázs Memorial Tournament, held at the SportPont venue in Budapest’s 6th district — a truly outstanding and modern location that received excellent feedback from players and officials alike.

A total of 60 competitors took part in the event, including all top-ranked players aiming to secure qualification for the upcoming World Championship. From the very first matches, the tournament delivered a high level of play, intense battles, and a strong international-standard atmosphere.

The opening ceremony was both emotional and memorable. Szili Balázs’ widow, Szili-Darók Ildikó, and his daughter Anna were present and warmly welcomed by the table football community. Their kindness and love deeply touched everyone in attendance. The memorial tournament was officially opened by a wonderful ceremonial goal scored by Anna, creating a truly symbolic and heartfelt start to the competition.

The final lived up to all expectations. Károly Szathmáry (Váci Forte) delivered an excellent performance, defeating the reigning individual European and World Champion, Viktor Lukács (Testvériség SE), by a two-goal margin. The third place was claimed by the “star of Vas county,” István Debreczy (Vasi GE), who showed consistent form throughout the tournament.

The event was highly competitive not only in the premier category but also across all divisions and youth classes, underlining the depth and strength of the Hungarian table football scene.

The stakes are high: the X. ITFC World Table Football Championship will be held in Budapest from October 8–11, 2026, where the world’s best players will compete for the most prestigious titles in the sport.