Europe's Best at the Airport Trophy

From May 9 to 11, the 14th edition of the Airport Trophy (APT) will once again welcome some of Europe’s top youth handball teams as they gear up for the upcoming U21 World Championship in Poland.

As was the case last year, the lineup includes host nation Switzerland, along with Germany, France, and Spain. The major change this year is the tournament’s timing. Instead of the usual late-June slot, the youth elite will gather in Kloten earlier – in May – to compete. The reason? The U21 World Championship kicks off in mid-June.

“All four nations made it clear during last year’s tournament that they were eager to return this year,” explains Tournament Director Christoph Lüthi. “The APT has now firmly established itself as the final benchmark before the major summer event – alternating annually between the Youth European and World Championships.”

Fans can look forward to high-level competition once again. Spain returns not only as the reigning APT champion, but also as the current U20 European Champion. Alongside handball powerhouses France and Germany – both consistently top performers in youth handball – and a highly motivated Swiss squad, spectators can expect four outstanding teams filled with the stars of tomorrow. Players like Gino Steenaerts and 2024 APT MVP Djordje Cikuša, who lit up the court in Kloten just a short while ago, are now already performing on the global stage – representing Switzerland and Spain respectively at this January’s Men's World Championship.

Beyond top-tier youth handball, the Airport Trophy also offers an engaging side program. One highlight is the Mobiliar Kids Day, which Lüthi is especially proud of:"On Saturday of the tournament, primary school children can join training sessions with current and former handball pros – no experience needed!"

For the latest updates on the Mobiliar Kids Day and the tournament itself, fans are encouraged to follow the event’s official website and Instagram page. Tickets are only available at the venue on game days. Handball teams can also take advantage of special team ticket offers. Registration for both the Mobiliar Kids Day and team tickets can be done via the official website: www.airport-trophy.ch.

Match Schedule

Friday, May 9

5:30 PM – Germany vs. Spain

8:00 PM – Switzerland vs. France

Saturday, May 10

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM – Mobiliar Kids Day

5:00 PM – Spain vs. Switzerland

7:30 PM – France vs. Germany

Sunday, May 11

11:00 AM – France vs. Spain

1:30 PM – Switzerland vs. Germany