(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Excitement Builds as Long Lists Revealed for 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship
With just weeks to go before the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, fans worldwide are gearing up for an electrifying tournament set to take place in the Philippines from September 12 to 28. In a major step forward, the long lists of 25 players per participating country have been released, offering a glimpse into the world-class talent expected to take the court.
These initial rosters — subject to final eligibility checks by the FIVB — will be narrowed down to final squads of 12 to 14 players, confirmed just ahead of the tournament’s opening.
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Top international stars are poised to showcase their skills after standout performances in recent global events like the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) and continental championships. For some players, the World Championship will be their return to the spotlight following rest and recovery periods.
Italy: Defending Champions Ready to Shine
Team Italy, the reigning world champions, look set to bring back key players from their 2022 title run. Roberto Russo, a star middle blocker, could make his return, joining 11 members from the championship-winning squad. Fans can also look forward to seeing Simone Giannelli and Alessandro Michieletto, both part of the 2025 VNL Dream Team.
France: Olympic Stars Return
France, the Olympic gold medalists at both Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, are stacked with star power. The long list includes Earvin Ngapeth, MVP of both Olympic victories, and the entire gold-winning squad from Paris. Stephen Boyer, an Olympic champion who missed this year’s VNL, also features on the roster.
Poland: The Powerhouse to Watch
World No. 1 Poland comes into the tournament with momentum. The 2025 VNL MVP Jakub Kochanowski, along with standouts Kewin Sasak and Wilfredo Leon, headline a formidable lineup. While Bartosz Kurek is also back, Aleksander Sliwka remains out due to injury.
Brazil, Slovenia, and More: Stacked with Talent
Brazil’s bronze-medal winning VNL squad — including Best Libero Maique Reis Nascimento — all appear on their long list. Slovenia, captained by middle blocker Jan Kozamernik, brings back all 14 players who finished fourth in Ningbo. Veterans like Klemen Cebulj, Dejan Vincic, and Tine Urnaut strengthen the team further.
Global Stars to Watch
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Japan may welcome back Yuji Nishida, fresh off his wedding to Sarina Koga, as they aim to improve on their 6th-place VNL finish.
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The Netherlands could see the return of Nimir Abdel-Aziz, a vital piece for their World Championship hopes.
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Argentina’s legendary setter Luciano De Cecco is on their list.
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Micah Christenson (USA), Nicholas Hoag (Canada), Linus Weber (Germany), and Petar Krsmanovic (Serbia) are among other elite names expected to lead their teams.
As anticipation builds for the year’s most prestigious volleyball event, all eyes will be on the final squad announcements. The 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship promises high-octane action, unforgettable moments, and the chance to see the world’s best compete at the highest level.
