FIVB confirms participations of Russian teams in VNL

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) announced on Tuesday that Russia's men's and women's national teams will participate in the 2027 Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

Zhuang Yushan (1st L) of China spikes the ball during the match between China and Ukraine at the Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 in Hong Kong, south China, July 9, 2026. (Xinhua/Zhu Wei)

"Following its statement issued on 8 July 2026, the FIVB has continued consultations with relevant stakeholders to establish a clear roadmap for the return of Russian athletes and technical officials to World competitions," the world volleyball governing body said in a statement.

The VNL will expand from 18 to 19 teams for the 2027 edition, as neither of Russia's teams qualified through the usual process, with Slovenia's women's team and Finland's men's team retaining their places in the competition.

The FIVB confirmed that Russia had voluntarily chosen not to compete in the 2027 Men's World Cup, while its participation in the 2027 Women's World Cup has yet to be confirmed.