(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
The 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship is set to kick off in Thailand this week, marking a historic new era for the sport. This 20th edition, running from August 22 to September 7, introduces a revamped format with the world title contested every two years and an expanded field of 32 national teams, giving more countries the chance to compete on the global stage.
The tournament will take place across four host cities—Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket, and Chiang Mai—with pool play running from August 22 to 27. Teams are divided into eight pools of four, playing each opponent once, with the top two from each pool advancing to the knockout rounds. The elimination stages, including the Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal matches, will all be held in Bangkok from August 29 to September 7.
Pool F Preview – Chiang Mai
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Dominican Republic: Qualified via the 2023 NORCECA Championship, the Dominican Republic boasts nine World Championship appearances and reached the quarterfinals in 2014. Key players include libero Brenda Castillo, opposite Gaila González, and the Martínez sisters, Brayelin and Jineiry.
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China: With six medals in previous tournaments, including gold in 1982 and 1986, China is ranked fourth in the FIVB World Ranking. Coach Zhao Yong will lead stars Li Yingying and Gao Yi, alongside young talents like setter Zhang Zixuan and captain Gong Xiangyu.
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Colombia: Making only their second World Championship appearance, Colombia earned their spot with a third-place finish at the 2023 South American Championship. Key players to watch include setter María Alejandra Marín, opposite Dayana Segovia, and outside hitters Ana Karina Olaya and Amanda Coneo.
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Mexico: Ranked 24th, Mexico qualified through the FIVB World Ranking and will be led by Italian coach Nicola Negro. Star outside hitter Samantha Bricio returns to the squad, alongside setter Argentina Ung and middle blockers Jocelyn Urias and Karina Flores.
Pool F Match Schedule – Chiang Mai
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August 23 – Dominican Republic vs. Colombia – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
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August 23 – China vs. Mexico – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
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August 25 – Dominican Republic vs. Mexico – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
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August 25 – China vs. Colombia – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
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August 27 – Colombia vs. Mexico – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
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August 27 – China vs. Dominican Republic – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
Fans can follow all matches live on VBTV, witnessing top international stars and emerging talents compete for volleyball’s most prestigious prize. This edition promises thrilling action, unforgettable moments, and a showcase of the sport’s global growth.
