CATEGORIES & COMPETITION FORMAT

Algarve Minibasketball Cup 2026
AMC X — 10th Edition | Elevate the Game

Tournament Categories

AMC X 2026 is open to the following age categories:

U8

• Mixed teams

• Players born in 2018 or later

U10

• Mixed teams

• Players born in 2016 or later

U12

• Boys and Girls competitions

• Players born in 2014 or later

U14

• Boys and Girls competitions

• Players born in 2012 or later

All age categories follow age-appropriate rules and court adaptations, ensuring a safe, educational, and competitive environment.

Age Categories & Number of Teams

The Algarve Minibasketball Cup 2026 will host a total of 62 teams across six age categories.

These numbers are fixed for AMC X 2026 and reflect the organisation’s commitment to balanced competition, fair scheduling, and meaningful playing time for all athletes.

In exceptional circumstances, the organisation reserves the right to adjust these numbers.

Team Composition

To guarantee fair competition and meaningful playing time, the following team size rules apply:

 Team B Policy

• Registration of a Team B in the same age category is only permitted if the main team (Team A) has reached the maximum number of registered players.

• Movement of players between Team A and Team B within the same age category is not permitted, in accordance with tournament regulations.

Competition Format

AMC X is designed to provide balanced competition, maximum participation, and positive learning experiences.

Group Phase

• Teams are divided into balanced groups, considering age, experience, and competitive level.

• All teams play several group matches before entering the final stages.

Final Phase

• All teams qualify for the final phase.

• Matches include:

  • Classification games

  • Semi-finals (where applicable)

  • Finals

Every team is guaranteed a minimum of seven (7) games during the tournament.

Teams usually play two (2) games per day.

The organisation will make every effort to ensure that no team plays more than three (3) games in a single day, although this cannot be guaranteed in exceptional circumstances.

Game Philosophy

AMC X promotes a competition model based on development and respect:

• Equal playing time principles (age-category dependent)

• Educational refereeing approach

• Emphasis on teamwork, learning, and enjoyment

• Clear communication with coaches and team staff

Winning matters — but learning matters more.

Match Schedule Overview

• Arrival: All teams must arrive in Faro by July 1, 2026, in time to attend the Technical Meeting at 22:30.

• Games start: Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 09:00.

• Finals: Sunday morning, followed by the official Trophy Ceremony.

Finals Schedule — Sunday Morning (July 5)

Detailed schedules, groups, and court assignments will be published closer to the event via the website and official apps.

Fair Play & Eligibility

• Players must compete in their correct age category.

• Only in exceptional circumstances, and with prior approval from the organisation, may one overage player per team be authorised.

• All exemption requests must be submitted in advance and approved before the start of the tournament.

• All teams must comply with AMC X Tournament Rules.

Live Results & Match Schedule

AMC X provides a modern and user-friendly system for following the competition:

• Match schedules, results, and standings are available on the official AMC website

• Live updates via AMC mobile apps for:

  • Android

  • iPhone

  • iPad

• All scores and rankings are updated in real time

Cup Rules

Detailed information regarding:

• Competition format

• Tournament regulations

• Playing rules

is available in the Tournament Rules section of the website.

For information about accommodation, meals, transportation, venues, spectators, and All-Star Games, please consult the dedicated sections of the website.

Learn More

For detailed regulations, visit Tournament Rules
For deadlines and schedules, visit Important Dates
For costs and registration, visit Registration & Fees

AMC X — Elevate the Game

Balanced competition. Meaningful participation. A tournament with purpose.