As his 12-year term comes to an end, we reflect on the key moments for the world of volleyball during his presidency
Since becoming President in 2012, FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça Fᵒ has overseen a transformative period for volleyball worldwide. The International Federation under his leadership has reshaped the sport, from expanding global competitions to enhancing the visibility of volleyball on the Olympic stage.
Through innovations in competition formats, an improved ranking system, and a more athlete and fan-centred global calendar, President Graça has ensured volleyball’s status as one of the world’s most popular and competitive sports, with over 800 million fans worldwide. As his 12-year term comes to an end, we reflect on the key achievements of his presidency.
Expansion of Major Volleyball Events
A major highlight of Dr Graça’s presidency has been the creation of new flagship competitions that have added another chapter to the international volleyball book. Key among these is the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), introduced in 2018. The VNL brought a fresh, annual competition that showcases the world’s best national teams in both men’s and women’s volleyball. By blending exciting competition with cutting-edge broadcasting innovations, the VNL has redefined how volleyball is viewed globally. The league offers fans an intense, fast-paced tournament that spans several weeks, with matches hosted across multiple countries.
Germany vs Belgium come face to face in the Volleyball Nations League 2021
The VNL has shattered records in both global viewership and attendance. The VNL 2024 witnessed a remarkable 13% growth in attendance from 2023 and a 33% increase from 2022. The total attendance during the pool phases reached an impressive 751,000. In China, there was a remarkable cumulative audience of 268 million with 168 hours of live broadcast on CCTV. The success of the VNL not only reflects the strength of the competition but also highlights the significant strides volleyball has made in attracting a broader, more diverse fanbase under President Graça’s leadership.
President Graça also encouraged the continued growth of the prestigious FIVB World Championships. In a move to ensure greater opportunities to engage with the sport, the World Championships are now held every two years, with the participation of 32 teams per gender, rather than the previous 24. More countries than ever before can now host and participate in the prestigious tournament, reflecting the sport’s clear global growth.
Sir Sicoma Perugia became world champions for another year as they triumphed in the 2023 edition of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s Club World Championship, held in India
Another crucial area of focus has been age-group competitions, such as the World Championships. These events ensure that young athletes can compete at the highest levels of international competition and showcase their talent to the world.
Italy were crowned champions at the 2021 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U20 World Championship
Olympic Successes: Rio, Tokyo, Paris
Under President Graça’s leadership, volleyball has become one of the hottest tickets at the Olympic Games, consistently delivering intense competition and packed stadiums. Volleyball and beach volleyball combined were the most watched sports at the Games, generating 2.6 billion viewer hours globally (IOC Data Report).
The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 posed unique challenges, but volleyball emerged as one of the Olympic Games’ most successful and exciting sports.
The volleyball competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 left its mark on the hearts of millions around the world
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 brought another fantastic chapter for volleyball. With fans and celebrities alike coming to join the party at the South Paris Arena 1, the competition demonstrated how volleyball is one of the most beloved global sports.
A More Fair and Transparent Ranking System
One of the most significant achievements during President Graça’s presidency has been the reform of the FIVB World Ranking System. In June 2020, the new system introduced a transparent, merit-based model, designed to accurately reflect the scores and performances of national teams. The updated system now factors in all matches played at official FIVB competitions and other key competitions such as the Olympic Games and recognised continental events – with the result of every single match and set counting towards the ranking.
Teams gain or lose World Ranking points depending on whether they over-performed or under-performed, and the system is immediately updated after each match, making every result relevant to fans, media and stakeholders.
This innovation has been widely praised for making the rankings fairer and more meritocratic. Teams now have more control over their ranking through consistent performances, and it encourages nations to strive for consistent growth. It also provides fans with an easier way to track the success of their team.
The new system has been widely praised for making the rankings fairer and more meritocratic
The New Volleyball Calendar: 2025-2028
Another key legacy of President Graça’s tenure is the introduction of a restructured Volleyball Calendar for 2025-2028. Launched with a ‘less is more’ approach, the new, streamlined calendar prioritises the health and wellbeing of athletes by reducing the overall number of competitions and simplifying event formats to allow more time for recovery and preparation.
The new 2025-2028 calendar
President Graça’s 12 years as head of the FIVB have left a clear mark on the world of volleyball. His leadership has been defined by innovation and opportunity elevating the sport even further on the global stage.
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