Handball tradition continues: Struga hosts 54th International Tournament

One of North Macedonia's longest-running handball events returns this week as Struga opens its courts for the 54th edition of the International Handball Tournament. Matches are scheduled from August 12 to 15, 2026, on the open-air court named Goran Poposki – Babec, set along the shore of Lake Ohrid.

Compact four-day programme with domestic and regional clubs

The organising committee confirmed a six-team line-up: host Struga will meet domestic rivals Vardar, Ohrid, Butel Skopje and Prilep, while Serbia is represented by Dubočica 54 from Leskovac. The format promises several evening fixtures under the open sky, continuing a summer tradition that began in 1973.

Since its inception in 1973 the tournament has grown into a seasonal highlight for local handball fans, attracting generations of players and supporters to Struga’s lakeside venue. Organisers highlight the event’s role in promoting youth talent and keeping grassroots interest alive during the off-season.

Macedonian Telekom again steps in as the tournament’s longstanding partner, providing both financial and technical backing. The company’s support includes the streaming infrastructure that will bring live coverage of the matches to remote viewers, reinforcing its commitment to domestic sport and young athletes.

Live-stream links and updates will be published on the tournament’s official Facebook page so supporters who cannot attend the stands can follow the action in real time. Organisers say the combination of a scenic outdoor setting and digital coverage allows the competition to reach a wider audience than ever before.

The 54th International Handball Tournament in Struga is expected to keep the town at the centre of the country’s summer handball calendar, offering fans a mix of tradition, competitive fixtures and new sporting stories across four days.

Author: Marija Kovaceva

Photo: press material from the event