Switzerland vs. Italy: Who will get their ticket to the World Handball Championship?

On Wednesday before Ascension Day, May 13, 2026, the Swiss national team will welcome the Azzurri to Zurich's Hallenstadion for the decisive play-off for the 2027 World Handball Championship in Germany. An explosive duel.

The hot phase on the road to the World Championship is now beginning for the men's national team. The focus is already on the decisive first leg of the play-off against Italy.

The national team is returning to a special place. Last year, over 8,000 fans transformed the Hallenstadion into an impressive handball stage for the international match against Germany. With an atmosphere that attracted attention far beyond the country's borders. Now Switzerland's largest indoor arena is set to become a home fortress once again.

Strong opponent with a German coach

Anyone who thinks the Azzurri are a sure-fire success is mistaken. Italy's handball is experiencing an impressive renaissance: participation in the 2025 World Cup with a first-time appearance in the main round (16th place), qualification for the European Championship on a sporting path, strong performances against Spain and Serbia. Bob Hanning, the managing director of Füchse Berlin and former DHB vice president, has been on the sidelines since spring 2025. He wants to initiate a lasting change in mentality with the Azzurri.

The national team on course

On the Swiss side, the starting position is right. After their historic progression to the main round of the European Championship under national coach Andy Schmid, Switzerland were drawn from pot 1 for the World Cup qualifiers - a clear signal that Europe is taking the Swiss seriously. If the national team prevails, the World Cup finals await in Germany in January 2027, less than a thousand kilometers away.

On May 13, support from the stands will be crucial. Every decibel counts.