Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
World Aquatics inaugurated its new Water Polo 4x4 (WP4) Open Championships with an opening ceremony in the historic Dubrovnik harbor, creating a festival atmosphere with fast-paced matches and live DJ sets, according to World Aquatics.
World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam thanked the Government of Croatia and the City of Dubrovnik for hosting, highlighting Croatia's significance as a water polo hub. The ceremony was attended by officials including the Prime Minister of Croatia, the Mayor of Dubrovnik, and representatives from the Croatian Olympic Committee and Water Polo Federation.
The WP4 format is designed to boost speed and excitement with a condensed playing field, shorter shot clocks, and continuous high-scoring gameplay, making it ideal for open water and iconic pool locations globally. Teams from 20 countries across five continents are represented.
A showcase match featured the AQUA All Stars defeating the local Dubrovnik Stars, highlighting the fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled format. The championships run through 6 September.