The IBSA Goalball Sports Committee has made a groundbreaking decision regarding youth tournaments. Encouragingly, there are an increasing number of regional youth championships across multiple continents. In 2025, such events will take place in the Americas, Asia, and Europe. This development has raised the question of whether it remains appropriate for the Youth World Championship to also be held in odd-numbered years.

Given that budgets for youth teams are often limited in many countries, the committee decided that the World Championship should not compete with regional championships. This competition could force teams to choose between the two events, a situation best avoided.

As a result, the Youth World Championships will now be held in even-numbered years, starting in 2026. This change also alleviates scheduling pressures in odd-numbered years, allowing greater focus on the World Championship itself. The tournament will continue to be held every two years. IBSA Goalball will soon release a call for bids to host this prestigious event.