Members Alas Pilipinas with FIVB president Fabio Azevedo during his visit in Manila ahead of the Volleyball Men’s World Championship here. –HANDOUT PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–FIVB president Fabio Azevedo is confident that the Philippines’ historic first-ever hosting of the Volleyball Men’s World Championship will be a success.
The tournament runs from September 12 to 28 at Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.
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Azevedo, joined by Volleyball World Chief Business Officer Guido Betti, was in Manila for two days to inspect preparations for the 32-nation event with just two months to go.
“We have no doubt that the world championships here will be a remarkable success,” said Azevedo during a media roundtable on Thursday at the Philippine Local Organizing Committee headquarters in Taguig. “In the Philippines, we will show amazing matches to the world.”
FIVB president Fabio Azevedo looks forward to the upcoming hosting of the Philippines in the FIVB #MWCH 2025 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/FyY9NkBz5A
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) July 3, 2025
The Brazilian volleyball chief said the FIVB awarded hosting rights to the Philippines in recognition of its hospitality, growing volleyball culture, and strong track record in staging international events such as the Volleyball Nations League and several AVC tournaments.
“This is the first time the World Championship is being held every two years, not four, so we have many new perspectives. Our expectations are very high. We set the bar high for the Philippines because it’s not the first time the country has organized a big event,” said Azevedo.
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“One thing that gives us absolute comfort is the huge experience of the volleyball leadership here. President Suzara and his team have proven their ability to deliver great events. I believe even they will raise the bar this time.”
Azevedo also underscored the scale of the event, noting the jump from eight teams in the VNL to 32 national teams for the world championship.
“You’re going to see our athletes everywhere in the city,” he added.
PNVF and AVC president Tats Suzara welcomed Azevedo along with PNVF vice president Ricky Palou and secretary-general Donaldo Caringal, and members of the Alas Pilipinas men’s team.
“It’s our honor to have FIVB president Fabio here,” said Suzara. “We appreciate President Fabio making a quick visit to guide us in successfully hosting the World Championship for the first time.”
Azevedo said he hopes the event will help volleyball capture the interest of more casual fans in the Philippines.
“The next step for volleyball is to conquer the casual fans,” he said. “There’s no other way to do it but to make the sport more accessible and engaging. Volleyball is a sport you can play 365 days a year, indoors, outdoors, on sand, snow, grass. Two-on-two, three-on-three, six-on-six, it doesn’t matter.”
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Azevedo also encouraged fans to secure tickets and be part of the historic tournament, which will include fan zones and other VNL-style experiences.
“Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the games,” he said. “This won’t just be about seeing the best volleyball teams in the world — it will be an amazing experience and great entertainment. Bring your families and kids. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”