Pétanque Around the World
Major Pétanque Tournaments Worldwide, Outside of the World Championships
The major pétanque tournaments worldwide, outside of the World Championships, include the Mondial la Marseillaise à Pétanque, the Masters de Pétanque, the European Club Cup, the Trophée des Villes, and international tournaments such as the Mondial de Millau or the International Paoli in Corsica.
French and European Tournaments
Mondial la Marseillaise à Pétanque: This is the most prestigious tournament in the world, bringing together more than 13,000 players each year in Marseille, with a strong international presence.
Masters de Pétanque: A highly popular traveling competition with several stages across France, bringing together the world's elite.
European Club Cup: Competes the best European clubs in a highly anticipated annual final.
Trophée des Villes: A tournament bringing together teams representing different French cities, renowned for its atmosphere and the quality of play.
International Paoli (Corsica): A biennial event that welcomes international teams in a festive atmosphere.
Former and New International Competitions
- Millau World Championship: Long considered one of the most prestigious tournaments, it attracted the world's best players for over 30 years, although the event is no longer held.
- International de l’Olivier, International Jeune Mixte, Bastille Day Brooklyn: Popular competitions in various countries, notably Spain, Thailand, and the United States, highlighting the sport's growth.
Other Must-See Events
- National Championships (France, Monaco, etc.): Each country organizes its own championships and qualifying rounds that reveal new talent and bring together the best players.
- Themed or ethnic tournaments (Benin, Madagascar, Thailand): Many countries also host their own major events that promote pétanque worldwide.
- Pétanque thus boasts a rich array of international competitions that attract enthusiasts from all over the world, in addition to the official World Championship.