After a whirlwind of three World Championships in as many years, international water polo fans have been truly spoiled. Singapore, hosting the 22nd men’s water polo championship from 12–25 July, continues World Aquatics’ commitment to expanding the sport into Asia—a region that, despite enthusiasm, is yet to fully embrace top-level competition. With Budapest set for 2027 and Asia again in 2029, the global rotation remains ambitious.
Croatia enters as defending champions after triumphing in Doha 2024, a tournament overshadowed by the looming Paris Olympics. This edition, however, promises undivided attention as the post-Olympics landscape reshapes dramatically.
Notably, Singapore 2025 introduces several rule changes designed to quicken the pace of play, including reduced shot clock durations—from 30 to 28 seconds generally and 20 to 18 seconds after corner throws or exclusions. Teams expand their rosters to 15, though only 14 will play each match, with an intriguing addition of a video challenge system.
Of the 16 nations qualified, 14 return from 2024. Notable absences include France— momentum in French water polo appears stalled. Conversely, Canada returns after missing Doha, and host Singapore makes its debut, replacing Kazakhstan and entering ranked 38th.
For the first time ever, Group C notably features no European teams, a significant milestone reflecting gradual global shifts.
Serbia’s Quest to Reclaim Glory
Though Serbia has dominated Olympic water polo—winners of the last three gold medals—their World Championship drought since 2015 remains puzzling. Uroš Stevanović’s men, led by iconic shooter Dušan Mandić, will feel immense pressure to restore Serbia’s supremacy.
Croatia’s Consistent Excellence
Croatia is ever-present, contesting semi-finals in 10 of the last 11 championships, winning gold thrice (2007, 2017, and 2024). Ivica Tucak’s squad, relentless regardless of roster transitions, again enters among the favourites.
Italy: Redemption and Revival
Italy returns after a controversial nine-month suspension following a VAR-related fiasco in Paris. Under coach Alessandro Campagna, the rejuvenated Italians, bolstered by competitive preparations, hold a formidable record (4 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze). A medal return would silence many critics.
Spain and Perrone’s Final Farewell
Felipe Perrone, the veteran heart of Spanish water polo, plans his swansong in Singapore. The 2022 champions look formidable alongside talents like Álvaro Granados and goalkeeper Unai Aguirre. A repeat victory would be a poetic end to Perrone’s storied career.
Hungary: Identity Crisis or Champions Elect?
Defending champions from 2023, Hungary arrive without star Gergo Zalánki (on hiatus) and goalkeeper Soma Vogel (injured). Coach Zsolt Varga, however, guides a squad buoyed by eight fresh Champions League winners from Ferencváros. The absence of Dénes Varga marks an emotional shift, yet Hungary remains bookmakers’ favourite at 3/1.
USA: Building for the Future
Team USA embarks on a youth-driven reset, minus stalwarts Ben Hallock and Alex Bowen. Fresh from Olympic bronze in Paris, their youthful exuberance could deliver surprises.
Greece: Forever the Bridesmaid?
Greece, perennially impressive yet lacking gold, seeks elusive glory. Their talented core—including Genidounias, Fountoulis, Kakaris, Skoumpakis, Argyropoulos, and Papanastasiou—has repeatedly flirted with greatness. Is 2025 finally their year?
Dark Horses and Emerging Teams
Australia’s upward trajectory, Japan’s thrilling pressing style, Montenegro under Dejan Savić, and host Singapore’s battle with South Africa offer compelling narratives. Singapore notably defeated South Africa 13-9 recently—anticipate another fiercely competitive encounter.
Groups at a Glance
- Group A: Italy, Serbia, Romania, South Africa
- Group B: Australia, Spain, Hungary, Japan
- Group C: Singapore, Canada, Brazil, USA
- Group D: Greece, China, Montenegro, Croatia
With fierce competition looming, this championship sets the stage for an exhilarating two weeks, reshaping the international water polo order.
Men’s Group Stage Schedule (CET)
Saturday 12 July
- 03:00 – Serbia vs South Africa (Group A)
- 04:35 – Canada vs USA (Group C)
- 06:10 – China vs Croatia (Group D)
- 07:45 – Brazil vs Singapore (Group C)
- 10:00 – Spain vs Japan (Group B)
- 11:35 – Hungary vs Australia (Group B)
- 13:10 – Montenegro vs Greece (Group D)
- 14:45 – Romania vs Italy (Group A)
Monday 14 July
- 03:00 – USA vs Brazil (Group C)
- 04:35 – South Africa vs Romania (Group A)
- 06:10 – Greece vs China (Group D)
- 07:45 – Japan vs Hungary (Group B)
- 10:00 – Australia vs Spain (Group B)
- 11:35 – Croatia vs Montenegro (Group D)
- 13:10 – Singapore vs Canada (Group C)
- 14:45 – Italy vs Serbia (Group A)
Wednesday 16 July
- 03:00 – Canada vs Brazil (Group C)
- 04:35 – Australia vs Japan (Group B)
- 06:10 – China vs Montenegro (Group D)
- 07:45 – Italy vs South Africa (Group A)
- 10:00 – Serbia vs Romania (Group A)
- 11:35 – Greece vs Croatia (Group D)
- 13:10 – Singapore vs USA (Group C)
- 14:45 – Spain vs Hungary (Group B)
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