The past
Spain are set to return to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup scene after their surprise absence from the last edition, held in Ravenna/Italy 2011. Despite winning a series of European titles (in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2012), La Selección have failed to make the same impact on the global stage, with their best performance to date fourth place at Marseille 2008.

The present
La Roja could barely have stamped their card more emphatically ahead of their return to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. Spain sealed their ticket to Tahiti 2013 with success in the continental qualifying competition, held in 2012 in Moscow, and did so by defeating no less a side than the host nation, and reigning world champions, Russia.

The future
Their status as top dogs in Europe well established, La Selección are determined to take full advantage of their Tahiti trip to add the long-coveted world title to their honours’ list. Indeed, La Roja’s leading man and captain Ramiro Amarelle, adidas Golden Ball winner at Marseille 2008, only has eyes for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup trophy: “Individual awards are secondary; it’s all about the team. We’re aiming to hit the ground running in Tahiti and win the World Cup.”

All involved in the national squad since the very first edition of the competition in 2005, remain Spain’s five pillars; namely goalkeeper Roberto Valeiro, Miguel Beiro, Nico, Amarelle and coach Joaquin Alonso.