FIVB Announces 8 Teams for 2026 Men's Club World Championship: Reigning Champion Perugia to Face Challengers

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has officially announced the eight teams participating in the 2026 Men's Club World Championship, to be held in Poland. The event brings together continental champions and the reigning world champion, promising fierce competition. Italian side Sir Safety Susa Perugia, the defending champion and CEV Champions League 2026-2026 winner, will aim to retain the title. Their roster features top stars such as outside hitter Oleh Plotnytskyi and setter Simone Giannelli. Their strongest challenger is likely Brazil's Sada Cruzeiro Vôlei, a five-time world champion (2026, 2026, 2026, 2026, 2026) and 2026 CSV Club Championship winner. Asian representatives include Foolad Sirjan Iranian (2026 AVC Men's Champions League winner) and Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi (2026 Asian champion, making debut), alongside African champion Al Ahly (2026 CAVB Club Championship winner). Notably, Turkey's Ziraat Bank Ankara (debut) and Brazil's Vôlei Renata (CSV runner-up) complete the field. Poland as host may receive a wild-card spot, yet unconfirmed. The tournament is scheduled for late 2026, with group stage and knockout format. Further details on schedule and ticketing will be released later. This event showcases the global growth of men's volleyball, especially with Indonesia's first participation. Analysts favour Perugia, but Sada Cruzeiro's history could cause upsets. Asian and African teams face challenges in experience and travel. Nonetheless, eight teams from four continents guarantee compelling stories.