The countdown is on for one of the biggest international sporting events Tenerife will host this summer.
From 16th to 23rd August, the U18 Women’s Water Polo World Championship will take place at the Tenerife Water Sports Centre in Puerto de la Cruz, bringing together some of the world’s most promising young players.
Adding even more prestige to the tournament is the appointment of Spanish water polo legend Pili Peña as the event’s official ambassador.
A true legend of the sport
Pili Peña hardly needs an introduction to anyone who follows water polo.
The former Spanish international recently retired at the age of 40 after one of the most successful careers the sport has seen.
She won Olympic, World and European titles, finished her club career playing Champions League water polo with Terrassa, and rounded everything off by helping Spain secure Olympic gold in Paris in 2024.
It’s difficult to think of anyone better placed to inspire the next generation.
Inspiring tomorrow’s champions
Speaking about her new role, Peña said she has fond memories of competing in junior international tournaments herself.
She recalled representing Spain at the Junior World Championship in Perth, Australia, describing those competitions as experiences that help young athletes grow, not only as players but also as people.
She also said she was delighted to be part of the tournament in Tenerife and looked forward to meeting the young players, who she believes are about to enjoy an unforgettable experience.
The world’s best young talent comes to Tenerife
The championship is being held with the support of the Cabildo de Tenerife, Turismo de Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz Town Hall and the Government of the Canary Islands.
For a week, Puerto de la Cruz will welcome the best young female water polo players from around the world as they compete for the world title.
Events like this continue to show that Tenerife isn’t just a destination for holidays. The island has become an increasingly important venue for international sporting events, combining first-class facilities with a climate that’s hard to beat.
If you’re visiting the north of Tenerife in August, it promises to be a fantastic opportunity to watch the future stars of women’s water polo before many of them go on to compete at the very highest level.