SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 17, 2025 – The TruckScout24 EHF FINAL4 2025 turned Cologne’s iconic LANXESS arena into a spectacular celebration of handball, setting new records in fan attendance and event experience. Held on June 14 and 15, this year's edition of Europe’s premier handball club event offered more than just high-octane matches—it delivered a full weekend of entertainment and innovation that thrilled fans from across the continent.
With over 20,000 spectators filling the arena for the first time in the event’s history, the 2025 edition redefined what it means to experience top-tier sports. From immersive light shows to interactive fan zones and the most extensive digital coverage ever seen in handball, attendees were treated to a 360-degree celebration both on and off the court.
A record-breaking crowd and unforgettable entertainment
Fans were welcomed into a dynamic festival atmosphere that began long before the first match. The 'Road to the Trophy' kicked off Friday with the grand opening of the fan village just outside the arena. Visitors were drawn in by:
- Sky-high views from the TruckScout24 balloon crane
- A relaxing holiday zone by the Croatian and Istrian Tourist Boards
- Skill games and digital goal walls from Modular Systems
- A quirky, oversized tumble dryer experience by Gorenje
- Photo ops with the MOL Selfie Cam and SELECT’s match ball challenge
Inside the arena, the excitement soared with cutting-edge opening shows designed by the Hallgrimson Entertainment Group. Each match began with dramatic lighting, visuals, and synchronized music, turning every moment into a shared experience through interactive LED wristbands distributed to all fans.
World-class handball thrills on court
The heart of the weekend was, of course, the four exhilarating handball matches. Saturday's semi-finals saw 2024 champions Barça clash with 2023 winners SC Magdeburg, while Füchse Berlin returned for their first appearance since 2012 to face HBC Nantes. The tournament brought together fierce rivals, returning champions, and rising stars, all determined to leave their mark on Europe’s biggest stage.
“With more than 20,000 fans in the LANXESS arena and an unprecedented entertainment and media setup, this year’s edition raises the bar for what club handball can deliver on and off the court,” said David Szlezak, Managing Director of EHF Marketing.
Broadcasting the energy to the world
The event didn’t stop at the arena’s doors. With more than 40 cameras in action—including a 25-camera main TV feed—the TruckScout24 EHF FINAL4 2025 became the largest TV and digital production in the history of the EHF Champions League. Fans at home enjoyed not only the games, but exclusive backstage interviews, player reactions, and the electric crowd atmosphere via EHFTV’s integrated stream and FanTV.
Young talent shares the spotlight
In an inspiring move, this year's tournament also included the EHF Youth Club Trophy. Under-18 teams from HC Eurofarm Pelister, GOG, Barça, and Veszprém Handball Academy competed for glory, with the final hosted at LANXESS arena. It was a powerful nod to the next generation of talent and a reminder that the future of European handball is bright.
A celebration that raised the bar
The TruckScout24 EHF FINAL4 2025 was not just a sports event—it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the passion that unites fans worldwide. With a flawless blend of top-level competition, immersive entertainment, and fan-first experiences, this year’s edition left a lasting impression and raised expectations for the future of handball.
Learn more at www.eurohandball.com.