The constant evolution of Futsal continues to take giant steps. FIFA published its world national teams ranking for the first time. An innovation for a sport that is increasingly captivating more fans on the eve of a new World Cup.

Brazil is the absolute leader in both the women’s and men’s categories. But how were the positions established? FIFA compiled statistics from more than 4,600 Class A international matches, considering the last nine World Cups.

According to information published by Inside FIFA, such is the interest in the spectacle that small-scale football represents, that for the last World Cup in Lithuania 2021, an average of 2.42 million viewers per match was calculated.

The men’s ranking is led by Brazil, followed in order by: Portugal, Spain, Iran, Argentina, Morocco, Russia, Kazakhstan, Thailand and France. Regarding the women’s ranking: Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, Colombia, Thailand, Russia, Iran, Japan and Italy.

An essential step forward in the development of futsal 🌎⚽️

The launch of the official FIFA Futsal World Ranking for member associations’ women’s and men’s senior national teams recognises the significant growth in popularity of the sport around the world.

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) May 6, 2024

HISTORICAL EVENTS

The movement on the field for Futsal will not stop with two hectic years and events that will be historic for the discipline. In 2024 the World Cup will be held in Uzbekistan, being the first FIFA tournament in Central Asia. In addition, in 2025 the first Women’s Futsal World Cup will be held.

For now, regarding the World Cup in Uzbekistan, this May 26 will be the draw for the groups. Portugal is the current champion, winners in the final against Argentina at the 2021 World Cup in Lithuania.

And with respect to the first women’s World Cup, the exact date and venue still remain to be defined. In October 2023, the creation of this historic event was announced, which will bring together the 16 best teams on the planet.