TIANJIN, July 28 (Xinhua) -- China was drawn in Pool A alongside Chinese Taipei, Iran and Iraq at the draw for the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship, held in Tianjin on Tuesday.
Olympic champions Zhang Na and Wei Qiuyue attended the ceremony as guest presenters. The 12-team tournament was divided into three pools.
Thailand was drawn into Pool B with Kazakhstan, Indonesia and Australia, while Japan will face Vietnam, South Korea and Hong Kong, China in Pool C.
Following a single round-robin group stage, the top two teams from each pool and the two best third-placed teams will advance to the quarterfinals.
The tournament carries major international significance, with the champion earning direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The top three finishers will also qualify for the 2027 FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship.
Asian Volleyball Confederation President Ramon Suzara said the championship would be a landmark event for the sport in the region, with Olympic and world championship qualification ensuring every match would be fiercely contested.
"We look forward to seeing the teams showcase the highest level of Asian women's volleyball in Tianjin, a city with a rich volleyball tradition, and jointly deliver a spectacular Asian volleyball event," Suzara said.
Yuan Lei, vice president and secretary general of the Chinese Volleyball Association, said the draw marked the beginning of the final phase of preparations.
"Today's draw has determined the final pool lineups and matchups, which also marks the start of the final stretch of preparations for the tournament. I believe Tianjin will provide the best possible competition conditions and comprehensive support services," Yuan said.
The championship will be held at Tianjin Gymnasium from August 21 to 30. Enditem
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