Iceland Tickets

Iceland in relation to sports

Iceland is perhaps best known for its natural beauty, with glaciers, volcanoes and hot springs drawing visitors from around the world. However, this small country has also made an impact on the world of sports in recent years.

Football, or soccer as it is known in some parts of the world, is the most popular sport in Iceland. The national team qualified for their first major international tournament, the European Championships, in 2016. They made a memorable run to the quarter-finals, knocking out England in the process. This unprecedented success boosted interest in football across the country and inspired young players to believe that anything is possible.

The Icelandic system for developing young football talent is unique. Children start playing organised games at a young age and are encouraged to enjoy the game rather than focus on winning. They play on small pitches with fewer players, which helps them develop individual skills and confidence on the ball. In a country where the population is only around 360,000, there are over 200 registered football clubs, giving children plenty of opportunities to play.

Another popular sport in Iceland is handball. The national team has been consistently successful, winning medals at European and World Championships. In a 2015 match against the powerful French team, Iceland shocked the world by beating them 26-24. The success of the national team has led to increased participation in handball, with more and more young people taking up the sport.

CrossFit, a fitness regime that combines weightlifting, gymnastics and cardio, is another sport that has become popular in Iceland. In recent years, Icelandic athletes have dominated the CrossFit Games, an annual competition that attracts athletes from around the world. Annie Thorisdottir and Katrin Davidsdottir have both won multiple titles and are considered among the fittest women on the planet.

In addition to these sports, Icelanders also participate in skiing, snowboarding, cycling and running. The rugged terrain and unpredictable weather make these activities challenging but rewarding for those who take them up.

Overall, Iceland may be a small country, but it has made a big impact in the world of sports. From football to handball to CrossFit, Icelanders have shown that they are competitive and determined athletes who can compete with the best in the world. With a population that loves their sports and plenty of opportunities for young people to play, Iceland looks set to continue making strides in the sporting world in the years to come.