Integrated perspectives on elite futsal performance

Futsal is experiencing a decisive phase in its global development, marked by a recent cycle of major international tournaments that provide unprecedented opportunities to examine the sport’s physical, technical, and tactical demands under conditions of competitive density and tactical complexity. Despite rapid expansion, scientific knowledge has progressed unevenly, remaining fragmented and limited in volume compared with football. Elite futsal is characterised by high physiological intensities, frequent accelerations and decelerations, congested schedules, and complex tactical reorganisation within severe spatiotemporal constraints. However, methodological inconsistencies and limited standardisation restrict the practical application of current findings. Women’s futsal represents a particularly critical frontier; although participation and international visibility are increasing, research remains scarce and often replicates frameworks derived from the men’s game, overlooking contextual and developmental specificities. Furthermore, talent development pathways, goalkeeper performance, and cross-cultural disparities in governance and resources require deeper, context-sensitive investigation. This Special Issue aims to advance an integrated and multidisciplinary understanding of elite futsal tournaments, fostering methodological innovation and strengthening the connection between research, coaching practice, and policy to support the sustainable evolution of the sport worldwide.