Thailand is set to host the 20th FIVB Women`s Volleyball World Championship, commencing on Friday, August 22. Thirty-two national teams will compete, initially grouped into eight pools of four. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the subsequent stages of the tournament.
Europe holds the largest representation among the participating nations, contributing half of the 32 teams – a total of sixteen. This contingent includes Serbia, the reigning champions from the previous two editions of the tournament.
The 20th global volleyball championship promises exciting performances from numerous stars. Renowned teams like current European champions Türkiye, aspiring for their first-ever World Championship medal, and Italy, champions in 2002, are among the prominent contenders.
Following their victory in the 2025 FIVB Women`s Nations League, Italy is considered a strong favourite in Pool B. Their matches, held at Phuket Municipal Stadium, will see them compete against fellow European teams Belgium and Slovakia, along with Cuba, whose last top-ten finish was in 2006.
European champions Türkiye are placed in Pool E, where they will compete against Bulgaria, Spain, and Canada. Despite Canada`s best finish being sixth place in 2010, Türkiye, led by their skilled coach Daniele Santarelli and a formidable squad, enters the championship in Thailand with high aspirations.
Defending champions Serbia, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive title (a feat only achieved by the Soviet Union in the tournament`s early years), are positioned in Pool H. They are expected to advance comfortably from their matches against Japan, Cameroon, and Ukraine.
The Netherlands, bronze medalists at CEV EuroVolley Women 2023, anticipate a challenging Pool A. Their opponents include host nation Thailand, Egypt, and Sweden, notable for their star player Isabelle Haak, a contender for MVP.
Pool C features France, Greece, Brazil, and Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, in Pool D, Czechia and debutants Slovenia will contend with strong contenders USA and Argentina.
Poland and Germany are expected to dominate Pool G, competing against Vietnam and Kenya. Pool F is unique as the only group without European representation, featuring China, Colombia, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic vying for advancement.
The initial pool play is set from August 22 to 27 across Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The top 16 teams will then proceed to the knockout rounds on August 29, 30, 31, and September 1.
Bangkok will host the quarter-finals on September 3 and 4, followed by the semi-finals on September 6. The tournament`s medal winners will be determined on September 7.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood