SEVENTY-ONE days ahead of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025, FIVB president Fabio Azevedo is already predicting an amazing show by the first-time and solo host Philippines.
“We have no doubt that the world championships here will be a remarkable success,” Azevedo told a press conference at the Philippine Local Organizing Committee headquarters for the FIVB MWCH 2025 at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City, Philippines.
“In the Philippines, we will show amazing matches to the world,” added Azevedo, who is in the Philippines for a two-day visit for updates on the Philippine preparations for the Sept. 12 to 28 world championship.
Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, also the head of the Asian Volleyball Confederation, and his secretary-general, Donaldo Caringal, welcomed Azevedo, who was accompanied by Volleyball World Chief Business Officer Guido Betti.
“Our expectations of the Philippines are very high. We set the bar very high because it’s not the first time they’re hosting a big event like this,” added Azevedo as he praised the successful three consecutive years of the PNVF’s hosting of the Volleyball Nations League. “It will be an amazing show; the world championship will be an amazing experience.”
Azevedo said that the PNVF, under Suzara, has influenced the world in its hosting of the VNL through the “Fan Zone,” a players-fans interaction after every match.
“From the Americas to Europe and Asia, you [PNVF] set the tone for this amazing ‘Fan Zone,’” said Azevedo, who’ll proceed to Palau with Betti for the Mini Pacific Games.
The “Fan Zone” innovation, the FIVB chief said, attracted and engaged more fans to a whole new level and “will be among the vital keys in the men’s world championship hosting by the Philippines given its innate warm hospitality.”
Added Azevedo: “We are confident that the PNVF will deliver. They have proven their capacity in delivering big events. They raised the bar that 72 days from now, you’ll be seeing the Philippines at the center of the volleyball world.”
Suzara said he’s honored by the praises and now brims with added confidence in delivering the expectations not only anticipated by the FIVB but also by the Filipino fans.
“It’s our honor to have FIVB president Fabio here,” Suzara said. “We appreciate President Fabio having a quick visit to guide us in the successful world championship hosting for the first time in the Philippines.”
This year’s world championship will debut an expanded format from 24 to 32 teams and marks the first edition under a new biennial cycle.
Matches will be held at two major venues in the heart of Manila–Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City and the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
