The FIVB Board of Administration convened online recently, making crucial decisions, discussing strategic updates, and exploring exciting developments to enhance the future of both volleyball and beach volleyball.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the official confirmation that the Netherlands will host the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in 2027.
Investment and Empowerment Initiatives
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo outlined the Federation`s Investment Strategy, emphasizing a strong dedication to reinvesting in the sport. From 2021 to 2024, the FIVB channeled over $100 million, representing 74% of its revenue, directly back into volleyball through prize money, Volleyball Empowerment initiatives, and transfer reimbursements.
Additionally, Hitesh Malhotra, Head of Volleyball Empowerment and National Federation (NF) Relations, provided data showcasing the positive impact of the Volleyball Empowerment program. Since 2017, 175 National Federations have received support for coach development, fostering long-term technical capabilities. Currently, 150 such coach support projects are active globally.
Furthermore, since 2022, there has been a remarkable 300% increase in Volleyball Empowerment-supported NFs competing in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, and a 320% increase for the Women’s edition.
Paulo Barone`s Development and Sustainability Department shared its recent achievements, and updates were also given by Volleyball World and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation.
Upcoming Events and Paris 2024 Success
Before the meeting, Alise Kessler, Head of Volleyball, and Yu Cao, Head of Beach Volleyball, provided comprehensive updates on the packed calendar of upcoming events, with opportunities for questions during the session. Key events discussed included the ongoing 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines, and the Women’s World Championship in Thailand. Also covered were this year’s Age Group World Championships and the 2025 Club World Championships.
For beach volleyball, the pre-meeting report detailed the 2025 Beach Pro Tour, the eagerly awaited FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in Adelaide, Australia (November 14-23 this year), and the FIVB Beach Volleyball Age Group World Championships.
The remarkable success of volleyball and beach volleyball at the Paris 2024 Olympics was a central topic. FIVB Secretary General Hugh McCutcheon and General Sports Director Steve Tutton offered a detailed analysis of the sports` performance and impact at the Games. They also gave a preview of the upcoming one-year anniversary celebrations at Paris City Hall and shared updates on the preparations for the LA28 Olympic Games, indicating growing momentum.
Anna Manuelian, FIVB Head of International Affairs and Communications, reported on the inaugural World Volleyball Day, held on July 7, 2025. This global celebration united millions of fans and stakeholders, achieving a remarkable digital reach of 280 million people across various social media platforms.
Governance and Financial Review
Regarding governance, the Board of Administration approved several adjustments to the composition of its Councils and Commissions. Poland`s Hubert Tomaszewski was appointed to the Volleyball Council, and Australia`s three-time Olympian Louise Bawden, who is also President of the FIVB Athletes’ Commission, joined the VNL Council. Both were designated as experts in their respective roles.
Concurrently, Brazil`s Emanuel Rego resigned as Secretary of the Heritage and Legacy Commission, a role now filled by Australian beach volleyball icon and Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medalist Kerri Pottharst. Furthermore, Marina Tsui of Hong Kong took over from Terry Sasser on both the Finance Commission and the Internal Auditors Commission. Ms. Tsui had previously served as a substitute Internal Auditor at the 39th FIVB World Congress in Porto, Portugal.
Finally, the Board of Administration reviewed and endorsed the FIVB’s 2024 financial statements, encompassing the Profit & Loss Statement, Balance Sheet, and the FIVB Controller’s Report. The 2025-2026 budget was also unveiled, establishing the financial framework for future global expansion.
The next meeting of the FIVB Board of Administration is scheduled for Manila, Philippines, coinciding with the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship from September 12-28, 2025.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood