The 16 participants at this year’s FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Russia 2021™ discovered their path to glory today. You can rewatch the draw here.

Beach soccer legend Madjer and former Russian captain Alexey Smertin acted as assistants during the draw. Madjer won the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup twice with Portugal (2015 and 2019) and Alexey Smertin played in 55 international matches, notably representing his country at the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea / Japan™. The 16 participating teams were divided into four pots of four teams each according to the official draw procedure.

The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup kicks off in Moscow on 19 August and the latest world champion will be crowned on 29 August. Russia 2021 will be the eleventh edition of the tournament and will take place at the iconic Luzhniki Olympic Complex.