Volleyball Council charts exciting course

for upcoming international events

February 28, 2026.- The Volleyball Council convened this week to review key developments across the sport and shape the strategic direction for the years ahead, with discussions spanning major international events, governance updates and the continued evolution of the Global Volleyball Movement.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to competition updates and strategic initiatives. Council members were given a comprehensive review of the proposed rules and regulations to be tested at official volleyball events in 2026. These proposals are aligned with the FIVB Strategic Vision 2032 and aim to continue enhancing fan appeal and accessibility while safeguarding the integrity of competition.

Council members also received detailed reports and discussed preparations for the Volleyball Nations League 2026, building on the competition’s continued growth and global impact. Updates were also provided on the 2026 Continental Championships 2026, which mark the start of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic qualification for volleyball, as well as the evolution of the FIVB Volleyball Junior World Championships, demonstrating the FIVB’s commitment to youth development pathways.

The Council further reviewed plans for the 2026 edition of the FIVB Volleyball Club World Championships, as well as preparations for the FIVB Volleyball World Championships 2027. Discussions also included updates relating to volleyball’s road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Beyond event planning, the Council examined the evolving role of technical officials, including education programmes. Members also received an update on Volleyball World’s efforts to raise the commercial portfolio of volleyball. The Council also discussed the latest developments to the Volleyball World Ranking system, with an aim to grow the representation of National Federations.

In his closing remarks, President of the Volleyball Council, Mehmet Akif Üstündağ, thanked Council members for their constructive engagement and reaffirmed the shared responsibility to help drive the growth of volleyball with vision and integrity.

“We have addressed topics that directly influence the structure and future of our sport – from major international events to developments and proposals that are enhancing the game,” he said. “Your expertise and willingness to share diverse perspectives ensure that our decisions are balanced, responsible and focused on the long-term development of volleyball.”