Sunshine Coast to host expanded edition of Pacific Championships in 2026

Football Queensland’s Pacific Championships will return to the Sunshine Coast in 2026, with an expanded edition of the event to be held at the University of the Sunshine Coast from Tuesday, 29 September to Sunday, 4 October.

Delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, the Pacific Championships invites teams from across the state and country and international sides to compete against their peers in Under 9 to Under 14 Boys and Under 9/10 to Under 13/14 Girls age groups.

“Football Queensland is excited to welcome even more players, coaches and families to the Sunshine Coast this year for the Pacific Championships following the success of the last two events,” Football Queensland State Technical Director Tom Laxton said.

“With additional age groups added, the 2026 edition of the tournament will provide more opportunities for the next generation of up-and-coming stars to test their skills as they play high-quality match minutes against new opposition.

“A new venue will also help to elevate the event experience for participants and spectators this year as the Pacific Championships are held at the University of the Sunshine Coast for the first time.

“From the beautiful beaches to the local attractions, the Sunshine Coast will continue to provide the perfect backdrop to the tournament in 2026, and we thank the Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast for their ongoing support of the Pacific Championships.”

“Council is proud to support the return of the Pacific Championships in 2026, particularly as the event expands to welcome more teams, families and visitors to the Sunshine Coast,” Sunshine Coast Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Terry Landsberg said.

“Hosting the tournament at the University of the Sunshine Coast highlights our strong capability to deliver high quality sporting events, while supporting development pathways for young athletes and reinforcing our reputation as a respected sports destination.

“Major events like this play an important role in strengthening our local economy by driving visitation and delivering flow-on benefits for accommodation providers, hospitality venues and small businesses across the region.

“Hosting tournaments of this calibre also supports our long-term planning and capability as the Sunshine Coast prepares for potential football activations associated with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

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