The 2025 IHF Women’s Handball World Championship ended on December 14, 2025. The tournament left a strong impact on the world of women’s sports. It delivered high-quality matches, record crowds, and global attention for women’s handball.
The event was jointly hosted by Germany and Netherlands. It ran from November 26 to December 14, 2025. Over these three weeks, the championship became one of Europe’s most discussed sporting events.
Thrilling knockout matches and standout performances defined the tournament. Once again, Europe proved its dominance in women’s handball. At the same time, the sport showed clear growth in popularity and professionalism.
A Tournament That Set New Standards
The 2025 edition impressed with its scale and smooth organisation. The atmosphere inside arenas was energetic and passionate. Matches were held in Dortmund, Stuttgart, and Trier in Germany, and Rotterdam and ’s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch) in the Netherlands.
Fan turnout reached historic levels. More than 353,000 spectators attended matches during the tournament. This figure broke the previous attendance record. It also showed rising interest in women’s handball across Europe.
The championship was organised by the International Handball Federation (IHF). A total of 32 national teams competed. These teams came from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. European teams once again showed their strength on the global stage.
Nordic Teams Lead the Way
The standout team of the tournament was the Norway women’s national handball team. Norway played with speed, discipline, and tactical control. They remained unbeaten throughout the competition.
Norway won their fifth Women’s Handball World Championship title. This result extended their all-time record. In the final, they defeated co-host Germany 23–20. Analysts praised the performance as one of the strongest in tournament history.
The Denmark women’s national handball team impressed with their attacking style and squad depth. Defending champions France women’s national handball team also performed strongly. France exited the tournament in the semifinals after another solid campaign.
Successful Hosting by Germany and the Netherlands
Germany and the Netherlands received positive feedback as host nations. Their venues, transport systems, and match operations worked smoothly. Fans created strong atmospheres in packed arenas.
Germany reached their first Women’s World Championship final since 1993. The team finished with a silver medal. The Netherlands reached the semifinals with strong home support.
Hosting the tournament boosted interest in women’s handball at the grassroots level. This was especially visible in the Netherlands. Germany further strengthened its reputation as a top host for major international sports events.
Why the Tournament Matters
The 2025 championship was about more than trophies. It reflected wider changes in global sport.
Viewership for women’s sports continues to grow. Female athletes are receiving more recognition. Sponsorship and commercial interest are increasing. The fan base is expanding beyond traditional handball nations.
Many analysts see this tournament as a turning point. Similar events helped women’s football grow in recent years. Women’s handball may now follow the same path.
A Turning Point for Women’s Handball
With Norway lifting the trophy, the 2025 championship came to a strong close. The message was clear. Women’s handball is no longer a niche sport.
It is fast, competitive, and exciting to watch. It also has strong commercial potential. Europe remains at the centre of this growth.
For fans, players, and federations, the 2025 IHF Women’s Handball World Championship will be remembered as a tournament that helped shape the future of the sport.