The European team triumphs over Puerto Rico and Argentina in the fierce World Ranking competition.
The Ukrainian women`s national volleyball team is set to make its highly anticipated debut in the prestigious Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in 2026, with their participation now officially confirmed. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone, as Ukraine will now have both its men`s and women`s national teams competing in the world`s premier annual volleyball tournament. The men`s squad successfully debuted this year, narrowly missing out on a spot in the Finals.
Ukraine secured its place in the VNL by replacing the relegated Korean team. They currently hold an impressive 15th position in the women`s FIVB Volleyball World Ranking, accumulating 192.10 points. This score places them just ahead of their closest rivals, Puerto Rico (190.09 points) and Argentina (189.05 points), in the challenging qualification race.
Earlier this season, the Ukrainian team demonstrated exceptional prowess by winning the CEV Volleyball European Golden League. Their journey included a strong performance in the league stage, where they maintained a 5-1 win-loss record and finished second overall. Advancing to the Finals in Sweden, they decisively defeated the host nation in a straight-set semi-final, avenging their only prior loss in the competition. They then went on to triumph over Hungary in a four-set gold medal match, claiming the championship title.
Under the strategic leadership of Polish head coach Jakub Gluszak, the team`s victory in the Golden League earned them a crucial gain of 19.96 World Ranking points. This significant increase allowed Ukraine to overtake both Puerto Rico and Argentina, who had been ranked higher before the season began, thereby securing their coveted spot in VNL 2026.
Looking ahead, Ukraine is also scheduled to participate in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, which is slated to begin on August 22 in Thailand, promising another exciting challenge for the rising team.
Jasper Thornfield