The road to EURO 2026 in minifootball officially took an important step forward with the ceremonial draw of the tournament groups, an event that brought together prominent figures from football and the wider sporting community. The evening combined anticipation, celebration and prestige as participating nations discovered their opponents for the upcoming European championship.
Adding a special atmosphere to the ceremony was the presence of several distinguished guests who not only attended the event but also actively participated in the draw itself. Among them was legendary Czech footballer Antonín Panenka, whose name is forever linked with one of the most iconic moments in football history. Panenka, famous for the audacious penalty technique that bears his name, helped draw the tournament groups, symbolically connecting the heritage of European football with the future of the rapidly growing minifootball scene.
A key figure of the evening was Juraj Kucka, the well-known Slovak international footballer who also serves as an official ambassador of the EURO 2026 Minifootball Championship. With an impressive career in top European leagues and numerous appearances for the Slovak national team, Kucka represents the spirit of dedication and passion that defines the game. As ambassador of the tournament, he plays an important role in promoting the championship and bringing the excitement of minifootball closer to fans across Europe. During the ceremony, he joined the other guests on stage to help reveal the tournament groups.
The draw also featured Matej Beňuš, Olympic medalist in canoe slalom and one of Slovakia’s most successful athletes. His presence reflected the strong support of the broader sporting community for the championship and highlighted the unifying power of sport beyond individual disciplines.
Completing the lineup of distinguished guests was respected Slovak football expert, coach and analyst Ladislav Borbély, known for his long-standing contribution to football development and his deep understanding of the game. Borbély also took part in the draw, helping determine the path that teams will take on their journey toward the European title.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the unveiling of the official EURO 2026 Minifootball trophy. Elegant and modern in design, the trophy represents the ultimate reward for the national team that will rise above the competition. Beyond its visual appeal, it symbolizes dedication, teamwork and the growing prestige of European minifootball, a sport that continues to expand its reach and popularity across the continent. The trophy displays the EMF logo for Euro 2026, which includes the Tatra Mountains, the symbol of the UNESCO village Čičmany, the Danube River, and a heart symbol, as Slovakia is often referred to as the Heart of Europe.
The event also introduced the official tournament mascot- wolf, which immediately captured the attention of the audience. Designed to reflect the energy, passion and inclusiveness of minifootball, the mascot will play a central role in the championship’s promotion. It will accompany the tournament throughout fan events, promotional activities and matchdays, helping create a vibrant atmosphere for supporters of all ages.
As the draw unfolded and the groups were revealed, representatives of the participating nations followed the proceedings with keen interest, already beginning to anticipate the matchups and rivalries that will define the tournament.
The draw ceremony was more than just the technical start of the competition schedule. It served as a celebration of the sport’s development and the community that surrounds it—bringing together legendary football figures, elite athletes and respected experts. With the groups now set, attention gradually shifts toward the tournament itself, where Europe’s best minifootball teams will compete for continental glory at EURO 2026.