Birmingham will return to the global spotlight as host of the 2026 World Boccia Challenger, set for June 16–23, 2026. The Boccia International Sports Federation chose Birmingham, marking the first world-level boccia event in the U.S. since 2017.
Boccia Returns to U.S. Soil
Boccia, a precision sport similar to bocce, is designed for athletes with disabilities. It became part of the Paralympic Games in 1984 and now spans over 50 countries.
Athletes competing in Birmingham will earn points toward qualifying for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. The Lakeshore Foundation, home of Boccia United States, will host the event. This facility is internationally recognized for its work in adaptive sports.
Birmingham Welcomes the World
“We are honored to welcome the global boccia community to Birmingham,” said Dan Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. “This event builds our reputation as a top international sports destination. It also gives us a chance to highlight our hospitality, venues, and vibrant culture.”
Jen Allred, Chief Program Officer at Lakeshore Foundation, said the event showcases Lakeshore’s top-tier facilities. “It also gives us a chance to work with city leaders and promote Birmingham as an accessible and welcoming host city,” she added.
Part of a Global Boccia Calendar
Birmingham joins a global series of boccia competitions planned for 2026. These events will take place across multiple continents, reflecting the sport’s rapid international growth.
Confirmed tournaments include the Ryad 2026 World Boccia Challenger in Saudi Arabia and the Montreal 2026 World Boccia Cup in Canada. South America will host the South American Para Games in Valledupar, Colombia, and the Foz do Iguaçu World Boccia Cup in Brazil.
European events include the Povoa 2026 World Boccia Cup in Portugal, the Poznan 2026 Challenger in Poland, and the Pilsen 2026 Challenger in the Czech Republic. In Asia, the Seoul 2026 World Boccia Championships will take place in South Korea. The Astana World Cup in Kazakhstan and the Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, round out the schedule.
Birmingham’s Global Role
With this selection, Birmingham joins a prestigious group of host cities. The event brings elite competition to the U.S. and supports efforts to expand opportunities for athletes with disabilities worldwide.
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