Philippines set to host 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship

By: Lance Agcaoili - 9 months ago

FILE–Crowd shot during the FIVB VNL game between Japan and China at Mall of Asia Arena. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines earned the hosting rights to the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in 2025 a month after expressing its desire to bring the prestigious tournament to Manila.

The FIVB on Wednesday evening announced that it has been selected to host the world men’s volleyball tilt set on September 12 to 28 next year.

The country will bring world-class volleyball action to Filipino fans with the top 32 volleyball teams around the globe vying for the championship.

READ: PH formally bids to host 2025 FIVB World Men’s Championship

“The international volleyball governing body selected the country following a rigorous evaluation process, finding the Philippines’ commitment to the development of volleyball globally. This prestigious event will not only inspire a new generation of athletes but will also help to encourage increased participation in sport at all levels in the country and wider region,” said FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° in a statement.

“We are confident that the Philippines, supported by our innovative Volleyball Empowerment program, will host an extraordinary World Championship that will leave a lasting legacy and help to cultivate an even brighter future for our sport globally.”

“This decision underscores our dedication to expanding volleyball’s global footprint and engaging with fans worldwide. The Philippines, with its proven track record of hosting major volleyball events and passionate fanbase, is well-positioned to deliver an exceptional championship that will showcase the best of the sport,” said Finn Taylor, CEO of Volleyball World.

READ: PNVF bid could pit national men’s team against world’s best

The Philippine men’s volleyball team is automatically qualified to take on the world’s best as coach Sergio Veloso expressed his excitement for a chance to take the program to the next level, following its breakthrough silver medal in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

The FIVB and Volleyball World will collaborate with the Secretary of Tourism, the Philippine Volleyball Federation (PNVF), and private stakeholders, who played a pivotal role in securing the bid and demonstrating the country’s readiness to host a world-class sporting event.

“If there is one thing that we, Filipinos, can do well, it is to equally give every team the best conditions so that they can fully focus on the competition and the championship trophy; to make them feel at home right in our own home,” PNVF President Ramon Suzara said.

The Philippines last hosted an FIVB men’s event in 2014 when it brought the Club Championship in Manila. The country will also host the Volleyball Nations League men’s division for the third straight year.

The PNVF is also bidding for the FIVB Women’s World Championship 2025.