The 2023 IHF Women’s World Championship officially got underway simultaneously in both Fredrikshavn, Denmark and Stavanger, Norway on Wednesday.

Along with Sweden, Denmark and Norway are co-hosts but with Norway the only hosting nation playing on the opening day, IHF President Hassan Moustafa was present at the DNB Arena in Stavanger to witness in person the first matches.

Ahead of the opening game between Austria and Republic of Korea, all 32 nations competing in the championship saw their flags represented on court before the Mayor of Stavanger, Sissel Knutsen Hegdal, officially opened the 26th edition of the global event on behalf of the IHF and all three host nations.

“It’s a great honour to welcome you all to Stavanger and to the 2023 IHF Women’s World Championship,” she said.

“As the Mayor, I am so happy to see all of you who have travelled from near and far to be part of this special occasion. Your presence enriches our community and I’m excited to witness the sportsmanship that you will bring to the handball court.

“This event marks a significant moment in the sporting history of our region, bringing together not only talented athletes, but also fostering a spirit of unity and friendly competition on a global scale.

“The city of Stavanger takes great pride in hosting this wonderful event. We are a significant sports region and have invested a lot so athletes have good arenas for training and also competition.

“Hosting the IHF Women’s World Championship encourages participation in sport, especially amongst the youth, and promotes physical wellbeing and teamwork.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the organisers, sponsors and also the volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this event a reality – your dedication and commitment have ensured that our city shines on the world stage.

“We are confident that these championships will be remembered as highlights in the history of handball. I wish you all the best of luck and may the best team win.

“On behalf of the IHF, I declare the 2023 IHF Women’s World Championship in Denmark, Norway and Sweden open. Good luck.”

Following the conclusion of the opening match which saw pure drama as Austria defeated Republic of Korea with an end-of-game penalty, Wahlstedt, a Swedish gold-certified DJ and producer, performed the Official Song of the championships, ‘Aiming for Number One’ on court. 

He was followed by a performance from Norwegian musical production company ‘Need Music’ which saw brass players and drummers play alongside 32 dancers performing acrobatics accompanied by flames.

Following the conclusion of the show, Norway and then Greenland took to the court for their opening Group C match.