The world’s most talented amputee footballers are set to descend on Costa Rica in 2026, as the World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) proudly announces Liberia as the host city for the eagerly anticipated WAFF Amputee Football World Cup. From July 31st to August 9th, 2026, the vibrant city of Liberia will become the epicenter of global amputee football, showcasing the incredible athleticism, skill, and determination of athletes from across the globe in this rapidly growing sport.
This edition of the WAFF Amputee Football World Cup promises to be particularly special, highlighting the increasing global recognition and popularity of the sport. The tournament will feature 24 national teams representing 5 continents, demonstrating the sport’s expanding reach. Teams will have earned their place through rigorous qualifying competitions taking place across the globe. Notably, qualifying tournaments in Africa and Europe have already concluded, with upcoming qualifiers scheduled for North and Central America, South America, and Asia throughout this year, underscoring the truly international nature of the event.
The growing prominence of amputee football is further underscored by the recent collaboration between the World Amputee Football Federation and FIFA. The FIFA Foundation is actively supporting the WAFF Amputee Football World Cup, a testament to the sport’s positive impact and global appeal.
“We are incredibly excited to bring the WAFF Amputee Football World Cup to Costa Rica,” said Mateusz Widłak, President of the World Amputee Football Federation. “This tournament is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the resilience and spirit of these remarkable athletes. Costa Rica’s passion for football and its commitment to inclusivity make it the perfect host for this prestigious event. The increasing global interest and the support from FIFA are a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in amputee football.”
The scale of interest in amputee football was vividly demonstrated at the previous World Cup in Turkey in 2022. The tournament drew significant crowds, with 25,000 spectators attending the opening match and an impressive 35,000 filling the stands for the final. Furthermore, the event garnered substantial viewership, with hundreds of thousands tuning in to broadcasts and millions engaging through social media and media coverage.
Harold Villalobos, head of the Costa Rican Amputee Football Federation, expressed his enthusiasm: “It is an honor for Costa Rica to welcome the world to Liberia for the 2026 World Cup. We are ready to provide a world-class experience for the teams, the fans, and everyone involved. This event will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy and inspire generations to come.“
The WAFF Amputee Football World Cup is held every four years and is the premier event in the sport. It not only showcases the highest level of amputee football but also plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting inclusivity for people with disabilities.
Preparations are already underway to ensure a successful tournament, with Liberia gearing up to welcome athletes and fans from around the world. Further details about the tournament schedule, venues, and related events will be released in the coming months.
