Volleyball World has announced the appointment of Ugo Valensi as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 4, 2025. Valensi brings significant international expertise in sports leadership, media innovation, and commercial strategy to the role.
His arrival comes at a key time for Volleyball World, building on the increased visibility gained from the sport`s presence at last year`s Summer Olympics in Paris. Around 800 million people worldwide now participate in or follow volleyball in some capacity. Last year, content from Volleyball World achieved a combined 1.8 billion views across television and digital platforms, highlighting the sport`s growing international appeal.
VBTV, Volleyball World`s successful online streaming platform, has seen a 55% year-over-year increase in paid subscribers. Furthermore, during the initial three weeks of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League, viewing time was 166% higher compared to the same period in 2024.
The organization`s acclaimed social media channels are also experiencing continued growth. Over 20 million individuals follow Volleyball World on social platforms, representing a 14% increase compared to the previous year. With plans underway to relaunch channels in China, 2025 is anticipated to be a record year for social media reach expansion.
Valensi joins Volleyball World from Grand Slam Tennis, where he served as Chief Executive Officer. In that role, he managed the collaboration among the sport`s premier tournaments: the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
During his leadership at Grand Slam Tennis, he contributed to expanding its global footprint, enhancing fan-focused narratives, and creating new value for rights holders and partners. A notable achievement was leading negotiations between the four Grand Slams, ATP, and WTA Tours with Netflix for the acclaimed `Break Point` documentary series, which was the first significant commercial joint venture across these entities. His work also involved establishing a unified governance structure, initiating cross-tournament business projects, and laying the groundwork for a coordinated digital and media approach.
Prior to this, Valensi headed the Sportfive agency, successfully overseeing its turnaround and sale to private equity. His experience in managing international sports organizations and leading strategic transformations will be crucial for Volleyball World`s forthcoming phase of development.
Valensi will commence his duties just after the conclusion of the Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Nations League Finals and shortly before major events, including the Women’s Volleyball World Championship in Thailand (August 22 – September 7) and the Men’s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines (September 12-28). This marks the first time both championships will be held in Asia. Additionally, the Beach Volleyball World Championships are scheduled for November in Adelaide, Australia.
As Volleyball World aims to enhance the sport`s global appeal leading up to and beyond the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Valensi`s leadership is expected to play a vital role in extending its reach and deepening fan engagement.
Statement from Ugo Valensi, Incoming Chief Executive Officer:
“I’m honoured to join Volleyball World at such an exciting moment in its journey. Since its launch in 2021, the organisation has redefined what’s possible for professional volleyball — blending sporting excellence with global entertainment appeal. With 800 million people engaging with volleyball worldwide, there is immense untapped potential. I look forward to working with Michael Payne, the team at Volleyball World, the FIVB, CVC Capital Partners and all our partners to expand our reach, deepen fan connections, and unlock the next wave of growth for this extraordinary sport.”
Statement from Michael Payne, Chair of Volleyball World:
“We are very lucky to have secured Ugo as our new CEO. He brings a wealth of expertise in the sports business, from both the rights holder and agency side. Through his time at Grand Slam Tennis and as CEO of Sportfive, he has shown his undoubted commercial acumen. Having listened to him outline his vision for Volleyball World, I look forward to working with him at this exciting time for the organization and the sport of volleyball.”
Statement from Fabio Azevedo, President of FIVB:
“We are very excited to welcome Ugo Valensi to Volleyball World and the Global Volleyball Movement. His impressive leadership experience in the international sports industry make him the perfect person to lead Volleyball World in this next chapter. We are confident that Ugo, together with the strong team of professionals at Volleyball World and the FIVB, will help us take volleyball to new heights.”
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick