FIVB Strips Russia of 2022 Volleyball World Cup Hosting Rights

## Volleyball World Cup Relocated Amidst Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has made the tough decision to relocate the 2022 Men’s Volleyball World Championship, originally scheduled to be held in Russia from August to September.This decision comes in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the FIVB’s deep concern for the safety and well-being of all participants. [[1]]

The FIVB board of Administration concluded that it would be impossible to adequately prepare and host the World Championship in Russia under the current circumstances. The institution emphasized its commitment to ensuring a safe and celebratory surroundings for the global volleyball community, including national federations, athletes, officials, and fans.

This decision follows similar actions taken by other international sporting bodies, such as FIFA and UEFA, who suspended Russian teams and national teams from participating in international competitions. World Rugby also took a similar stance, excluding Russia and belarus from events due to the ongoing conflict.Adding to the impact, the FIVB also announced the suspension of all Russian and Belarusian national teams, clubs, officials, and athletes from participating in international and continental volleyball events until further notice.

The FIVB expressed its solidarity with the Ukrainian volleyball community and the people of Ukraine, hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict. The organization is actively seeking an alternative host nation for the 2022 Men’s Volleyball World Championship and will announce the new location soon.

This relocation underscores the global sporting community’s commitment to upholding values of peace, safety, and inclusivity, even in the face of challenging geopolitical situations.

Spiking Out War: A Conversation with volleyball Legend, Gabriela Guimarães

Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we have a very special guest joining us: three-time Olympic medalist and volleyball legend, Gabriela Guimarães. Gabi, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us today.

Gabi: My pleasure! It’s always great to connect with fans and discuss the sport we all love.

Before we dive in, I want to address the elephant in the room – the recent decision by the FIVB to relocate the Men’s Volleyball World Championship from Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Gabi, as a seasoned athlete who’s competed on the world stage, what are your thoughts on this decision?

Gabi: Well, it’s a challenging situation, there’s no doubt whatsoever. As athletes,we train our entire lives for these prestigious tournaments,and having a host nation change so dramatically,especially so close to the event,is incredibly disruptive. However, I fully support the FIVB’s decision. The safety and well-being of every participant – athletes,staff,fans – should always be paramount. Sport should unite us, not become a platform for geopolitical tensions.

Do you think this decision sends a powerful message to the world?

Gabi: Absolutely. By taking a stand, the FIVB sends a clear message that sport cannot remain isolated from global issues. We have a responsibility to stand for peace and inclusivity, even at the cost of inconvenience or disruption.

Some argue that pulling major sporting events from countries facing geopolitical crises punishes athletes who have dedicated their lives to their sport. What’s your take on that?

Gabi: I understand that argument, truly. Athletes shouldn’t be held responsible for the actions of their governments.However, it’s even more important to remember that often, athletes from these countries are themselves impacted by the same conflict and are not immune to the suffering it causes. I firmly believe that prioritising the safety and well-being of all participants in a global event is the right call.

Do you think this will set a precedent for other sporting events scheduled to take place in countries embroiled in conflict?

Gabi: It’s certainly possible. We’re seeing other sporting bodies taking similar stances, suspending Russian teams from international competitions. It reflects a growing recognition that sport cannot be divorced from the wider world and its complexities.

This situation undoubtedly brings up the question of the future of sport in geopolitical hotspots. Where do we go from here?

Gabi: It’s a complicated issue with no easy answers. Ultimately,I believe the focus should always be on dialog,understanding,and finding solutions that prioritize peace and the safety of all. Sport has the power to bridge divides and foster unity, and that’s a power we should never underestimate, even in times of hardship.

Thank you so much, Gabi, for sharing your insightful viewpoint. This is certainly a conversation that will continue to evolve and shape the future of global sport.

Now, we’d love to hear from you, our dear readers! What are your thoughts on the relocation of the Volleyball World Championship? Do you agree with the FIVB’s decision? Share your opinions in the comments below.Let’s keep the conversation going!**