Pamplona Gears Up for Thrilling San Fermín Pelota Tournament 2025!

Pamplona, Spain - Pamplona is ramping up preparations for its world-renowned San Fermín festival, set to kick off in just a few days. This year’s celebration promises to be as vibrant as ever, particularly with the central highlight of the festival: the highly anticipated San Fermín Hand-Pelota Tournament. Organized by Liga de Empresas de Pelota a Mano (LEPM), the tournament will feature 32 pelotaris competing over the course of ten exciting days, from July 5 to July 14, at the Frontón Labrit. Isabel Moreno, the Director of the Ebro Zone at CaixaBank, shared insights during the presentation of the tournament schedule, underlining the event’s cultural importance to Navarra (Noticias de Navarra).

What’s new this year? Well, the tournament is introducing two parallel competitions, Serie A and Serie B, allowing for even more thrilling matches. The initial rounds will take place on July 5 and 6, leading up to the highlight event, the Cuatro y Medio final, set to occur on July 7 at the Navarra Arena. Such competitive format changes are sure to keep both players and spectators on their toes as they rally to support their favorites (Pamplona Actual).

A Celebration of Heritage and Sport

The San Fermín festival is not just about pelota; it’s a celebration steeped in rich tradition. Every morning, participants and spectators alike can awaken to the lively sounds of brass bands and the excitement of the bull runs, with the fourth bull run planned for the morning of July 7. This spectacle features six bulls from the famed Mr. Victoriano del Río Cortés, adding a thrilling edge to the festival’s daily events, which also include everything from children’s activities to traditional folk performances (San Fermín).

Beyond sports, the festival is packed with engaging activities for all ages. From the children’s offerings to San Fermín to the pulsating energy of street performances, there’s something for everyone. It’s a vibrant display of community spirit as families enjoy the many attractions between enjoying the intense competitions.

• 6:45 AM: La Pamplonesa and bagpipers kick off the day.
• 8:00 AM: Fourth Bull Run at Santo Domingo slope.
• 11:00 AM: Children’s offering to San Fermín at Customs Corner.
• 1:30 PM: Gaita flute players assembly at Town Hall Square.
• 9:00 PM: Signature fireworks at Citadel.

As the excitement builds, the involvement of CaixaBank as the official sponsor extends beyond mere financial support. With a commitment renewed until 2026, CaixaBank has a longstanding history of fostering both cultural and economic development in Navarra through sports activities. Their backing of the San Fermín tournament marks the 15th consecutive year of support, highlighting the importance of such traditions in the region (Pamplona Actual).

Prominent pelotaris such as Jokin Altuna, the recent Manomanista champion, and Iñaki Artola, the runner-up, are geared up to participate, bringing their talents to the center stage. Their presence promises thrilling matches that fans won’t want to miss during this iconic festival.

As we gear up for the San Fermín celebrations, it’s evident that this event does a good deal to not only spotlight talent but also celebrate the community’s culture, traditions, and heritage. With sports at its heart, San Fermín continues to be a time for unity, fun, and unforgettable memories.