As Dr Graça’s presidency draws to a close, we reflect on the key milestones that have shaped his lasting legacy in beach volleyball
Over the past 12 years, FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça Fᵒ has overseen an era of significant growth and transformation for beach volleyball.
Under his leadership, the sport has expanded its global reach, driven by the development of major events, a greater presence at the Olympic Games and the introduction of youth competitions. With the creation of the Beach Pro Tour and the continued success of the Beach Volleyball World Championships, beach volleyball has solidified its status as one of the most popular sports on the global stage.
Let’s reflect on the key moments that have shaped President Graça’s legacy in beach volleyball.
The Beach Pro Tour: A New Chapter for Professional Beach Volleyball
Australia battle it out against Thailand at the Coolangatta Futures stop
A major achievement of President Graça’s tenure was the introduction of the Beach Pro Tour in 2022 by Volleyball World. This professional circuit, which replaced the FIVB World Tour, has given athletes a world-class stage to compete on and created a beach party vibe for the passionate fans.
The Beach Pro Tour travels the globe, showcasing world-class beach volleyball in iconic locations. With its tiered structure of Elite16, Challenge, and Futures events, culminating in a Finals at the end of each season, the Tour offers athletes at all levels an opportunity to compete for prize money, ranking points and qualification for the Olympic Games. From sun-soaked beaches in Brazil and Egypt to the vibrant spots in Germany and the Philippines, the tour has brought together music, food and the beach lifestyle, and introduced beach volleyball to new audiences worldwide.
Beach Volleyball World Championships: A Stage for the Stars
The World Championships bring together the top teams from around the world every two years
The Beach Volleyball World Championships have long been one of the sport’s most prestigious events, and under President Graça’s leadership, the tournament has gained even greater prominence. Held every two years, with both the men’s and women’s editions in one event, six hugely successful Beach Volleyball World Championships have taken place during his mandate.
The Rome 2022 World Championship was the most-watched edition in the competition’s history. 16 million fans around the world tuned into content on Volleyball World’s digital platforms. Across Volleyball TV and social media, the event garnered 25 million impressions from 9 million unique viewers – an all-time high for beach volleyball’s premier tournament.
In 2023, the Beach Volleyball World Championships returned to Latin American sands for the first time since the 2003 edition in Rio de Janeiro. The event took place in Mexico, set against the backdrop of three historic bullrings in Tlaxcala, Huamantla and Apizaco.
Developing Future Talent: Age Group Competitions
Poland and Latvia battle it out in the final of the FIVB Beach Volleyball Boys U19 World Championships
A key focus of Dr Graça’s presidency has been the development of age-group competitions in beach volleyball. Understanding the importance of providing opportunities for young athletes, both the U19 and U21 Beach Volleyball World Championships have become key events in the international calendar for young and up-and-coming talent. These events offer invaluable international experience, helping young players transition to the professional level and build their careers.
By developing pathways for young athletes, the FIVB has ensured that the sport continues to grow and succeed in the years to come.
USA’s Myriah Massey sets in the final ahead of claiming gold with Lily Davis
Olympic Games: Iconic Matches and Settings on the World’s Biggest Stage
The Eiffel Tower provided the perfect setting for the beach volleyball competition in Paris
One of the crowning achievements of President Graça’s tenure has been beach volleyball’s increasing prominence at the Olympic Games.
Since its Olympic debut in 1996, beach volleyball has grown to become one of the most watched and beloved sports at the Olympic Games. The Olympic Games Rio 2016 were iconic, with the world-famous Copacabana Beach providing a spectacular backdrop for the competition. The atmosphere in the packed stands and on the sand captivated viewers worldwide.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, beach volleyball continued to shine at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Even without spectators, millions tuned in to see the action, further solidifying the sport’s status as a favourite on the Olympic programme.
The most recent edition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 offered another unforgettable few weeks of beach volleyball. Played against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, labelled the “Greatest Stadium on Earth” by the Wall Street Journal, the competition became one of the highlights of the Games. With a 14,000-capacity stadium described as the “hottest club in Paris” by the Associated Press, beach volleyball once again captured the world’s attention.
The iconic Paris 2024 beach volleyball stadium pictured from above
President Graça’s 12 years as FIVB President have undoubtedly been a period of extraordinary growth and success for beach volleyball. His legacy is one of innovation, global expansion, and a commitment to creating opportunities for athletes at all levels. As the sport continues to thrive, President Graça’s influence will remain a cornerstone of beach volleyball’s continued success for years to come.
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