CEV Board Confirms Wildcard Teams for Champions League 2026

The CEV Board of Administration finalized its extensive review of wildcard applications for the 2026 CEV Champions League Volley, announcing the five clubs set to join Europe`s premier volleyball competition. For the men`s tournament, wildcards were awarded to Halkbank ANKARA (TUR), Asseco Resovia RZESZOW (POL), and MONTPELLIER HSC VB (FRA). In the women`s division, Zeren Sports Club ANKARA (TUR) and Igor Gorgonzola NOVARA (ITA) secured the two available spots.

Seventeen clubs, both men`s and women`s, vied for this unique chance to participate in the CEV Champions League, highlighting the significant interest in the competition. The CEV Board had previously reinstated wildcards to elevate the event`s prestige, evaluating applications based on clear, pre-established criteria communicated to all applicants.

The Board ultimately sought a balance, aiming for highly competitive matches and enhanced marketability for the CEV Champions League Volley throughout Europe and globally. Therefore, the market potential of both the applicant clubs and their home countries significantly influenced the final decision. This strategic, holistic, and forward-thinking approach ensures a diverse representation of the European Volleyball family while pursuing excellence. Coupled with the inclusion of top teams based on the latest CEV European Ranking, the 2026 edition is set to deliver unprecedented entertainment and a boosted commercial profile.

The five chosen clubs—three men`s and two women`s—were selected for their strong track records, commitment to long-term growth, and pursuit of excellence. These teams are vital to European volleyball markets, boasting large and expanding fan bases, making them attractive assets for sponsors and partners. As previously stated, these wildcard entries will commence their campaign in the 4th Round (pool phase) of the CEV Champions League, filling the spots of Russian teams currently ineligible for international competitions.

This strategic introduction and allocation of wildcards signify an initial stride in CEV`s continuous endeavors to modernize the Champions League Volley. This competition, a genuine jewel of European volleyball, holds substantial untapped commercial potential that the leadership aims to fully realize and leverage.