World’s best volleyball nations set to clash in Manila next month

The Philippines is set to become the epicenter of world volleyball as the FIVB Men’s World Championship unfolds from September 12 to 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“Elite at its highest level,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon Suzara, as he welcomed the arrival of powerhouse teams.

Headlining the tournament are World No. 1 Poland, reigning world champion Italy, Olympic gold medalist France, and perennial powerhouse Brazil.

Poland, led by VNL MVP middle blocker Jakub Kochanowski and star spiker Wilfredo Leon, reclaimed the FIVB’s top ranking after sweeping Italy in last month’s VNL Finals. 

France, two-time Olympic gold medalists, are favored with Paris Games MVP Earvin Ngapeth at the helm, aiming for redemption after a quarterfinal exit in 2022.

Defending world champion Italy will count on Simone Giannelli (VNL Best Setter) and rising star Alessandro Michieletto (Best Outside Spiker), while Brazil’s stacked lineup—featuring Alan Souza, Ricardo Lucarelli, Mathias Bispo dos Santos, and veteran setter Bruno Fernando—looks to improve on their previous bronze finish.

With 32 nations vying for glory, Manila is primed for world-class action and historic volleyball showdowns as the sport’s elite chase the ultimate crown.