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2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for sports enthusiasts in Africa, with several new and emerging sports set to captivate audiences across the continent. Here are some of the most promising sports to watch out for in 2025:
Basketball: The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the NBA and FIBA Africa, is poised to continue its upward trajectory in 2025.1 This premier basketball competition showcases the continent's top talent and has quickly become a major sporting event in Africa.2 With its growing popularity and increasing exposure, the BAL is expected to attract even more attention in the coming year.3
Rugby: The Rugby Africa Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in Uganda, promises to be a thrilling spectacle for rugby fans.4 This top-tier competition features the best men's XV teams from across the continent, vying for continental supremacy.5 With Uganda hosting the event, it is expected to generate significant interest and excitement among rugby enthusiasts in the region.
Beach Soccer: Africa will host the 2025 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, a global event that will showcase the continent's passion for football and its growing interest in beach soccer.6 This tournament will provide an opportunity for African teams to compete against the best in the world and potentially make a significant impact on the global stage.7
Extreme Sports: Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains, making it an ideal destination for extreme sports enthusiasts.8 Activities such as sandboarding in Namibia, kite surfing in Zanzibar, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, white-water rafting in Uganda, and safari running in Botswana offer unique and exhilarating experiences for adventure seekers.9
Traditional Sports: Africa has a rich cultural heritage, and traditional sports continue to play an important role in many communities.10 Camel racing in Egypt and dhow sailing in Tanzania are just a few examples of traditional sports that offer a glimpse into the continent's history and culture.11 These sports not only provide entertainment but also serve as a way to preserve cultural traditions and promote physical activity.12
In addition to these specific sports, the African continent is also witnessing a growing interest in other sports such as cricket, hockey, and volleyball. As infrastructure improves and investment in sports development increases, Africa is well-positioned to become a major player in the global sports landscape.
Beyond these, here are some additional sports trends to watch in Africa in 2025:
Women's Sports: Women's sports are gaining momentum in Africa, with more and more women participating in a variety of sports, from football to netball.
E-sports: The popularity of e-sports is growing rapidly in Africa, with many young people becoming passionate about competitive gaming.
Disability Sports: There is a growing focus on disability sports in Africa, with initiatives to promote inclusion and participation for athletes with disabilities.
As the African continent continues to develop and modernize, it is clear that sports will play an increasingly important role in the lives of its people. With a diverse range of sports and a growing number of talented athletes, Africa is poised to make a significant impact on the global sports stage in the years to come.
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