FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League 2025: Everything You Need to Know
The FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 marks the seventh edition of one of the most prestigious tournaments in world volleyball. Organized by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), it brings together the top women’s national teams in an exhilarating competition from June 4 to July 27, 2025, with the finals hosted in Łódź, Poland. This year, the tournament introduces exciting changes, such as an expansion to 18 teams and Brazil hosting part of the preliminary phase. In this article, we dive into all the details, from the format to expectations for the Brazilian team.
What is the Women’s Volleyball Nations League?
The Volleyball Nations League (VNL) is an annual tournament that replaced the Grand Prix in 2018. Designed to revolutionize international volleyball, it features dynamic matchups between top teams in a format that includes preliminary rounds across various countries and a knockout final phase. The VNL showcases the sport’s biggest stars and serves as a benchmark for teams ahead of major events like the Olympics and World Championships.
History and Significance
Since its inception, the VNL has delivered unforgettable matches. In 2024, Italy clinched the title by defeating Japan in the final, while Poland secured bronze after beating Brazil. Known for its intensity, the tournament allows teams to test strategies and spotlight emerging talents. For Brazil, the VNL is an opportunity to uphold its storied volleyball tradition, with players like Gabi and Ana Cristina shining on the court.
What’s New in 2025
The 2025 edition introduces significant changes to enhance competitiveness and excitement.
Expansion to 18 Teams
For the first time, the women’s VNL will feature 18 teams, up from 16 in previous editions. Announced by the FIVB in February 2024, this expansion aims to make the tournament more inclusive and global. The additional spots were filled by Czechia, the 2024 Challenger Cup winner, and Belgium, returning as the highest-ranked team not in the previous edition.
New Relegation System
The distinction between “core” and “challenger” teams has been eliminated. Starting in 2025, the lowest-performing team in the preliminary phase will be relegated and replaced by the highest-ranked team in the FIVB world rankings for the next edition. This change raises the stakes for all participants, as no team is safe from relegation.
End of the Challenger Cup
The Challenger Cup, which previously qualified teams for the VNL, has been discontinued. The FIVB world rankings now primarily determine participants, alongside the expansion to 18 teams. This simplifies qualification and underscores the importance of consistent performance.
Competition Format
The VNL 2025 retains a structure similar to past editions but adjusts to accommodate 18 teams.
Preliminary Phase
The preliminary phase runs from June 4 to July 13, divided into three weeks with a break between each. The 18 teams are split into three groups of six per week, playing in different host cities. Each team plays 12 matches total, facing opponents across ranking tiers:
- 3 matches against teams ranked 1st to 6th;
- 3 matches against teams ranked 7th to 12th;
- 3 matches against teams ranked 13th to 18th.
The first week’s hosts include Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with matches at the Maracanãzinho from June 4 to 8. Other cities, such as Xi’an (China) and Quebec City (Canada), will also host games.
Scoring System
The scoring follows standard international volleyball rules:
- 3-0 or 3-1 win: 3 points for the winner, 0 for the loser.
- 3-2 win: 2 points for the winner, 1 for the loser.
Ties are resolved by set ratio (sets won divided by sets lost), point ratio (points scored divided by points conceded), and, if needed, head-to-head results.
Final Phase
The top eight teams from the preliminary phase advance to the finals in Łódź, Poland, from July 23 to 27. Poland, as the host, is guaranteed a quarterfinal spot regardless of its preliminary ranking. The other seven spots go to the highest-ranked teams. The finals follow a knockout format with quarterfinals, semifinals, and matches for bronze and gold.
Brazil in the VNL 2025
The Brazilian women’s volleyball team is a top contender for the 2025 VNL, buoyed by a strong 2024 campaign that saw them reach the semifinals and win Olympic bronze in Paris, defeating Turkey 3-1.
Matches in Rio de Janeiro
Brazil will enjoy home-court advantage during the first week at the Maracanãzinho. Their schedule includes:
- June 4, 5:30 PM: Brazil vs. Czechia
- June 5, 9:00 PM: Brazil vs. Germany
- June 7: Brazil vs. Italy
- June 8: Brazil vs. South Korea
These matches offer a chance for Brazilian fans to rally behind the team and for players to gain momentum. Italy, the reigning VNL champion, will be a tough opponent after defeating Brazil 3-0 in the first week of 2025.
Roster and Leadership
Coached by José Roberto Guimarães, one of volleyball’s most decorated coaches, Brazil’s 2025 roster is yet to be finalized but is expected to feature stars like:
- Gabi Guimarães: Captain and outside hitter, known for her powerful attacks and leadership.
- Ana Cristina: A young standout from the 2024 Olympics.
- Carol Gattaz: Veteran middle blocker, key in defense.
- Macris: Setter who orchestrates the game with precision.
Zé Roberto often blends experience with youth, so new faces may emerge. The roster announcement will be eagerly awaited by fans expecting a competitive squad.
Expectations
Brazil aims to claim its first VNL title, having never won since the tournament’s inception in 2018. In 2024, they reached the quarterfinals undefeated but fell to Japan in the semifinals and lost the bronze to Poland. For 2025, expectations are high for a consistent campaign, leveraging home support to start strong. The Italy matchup will be a critical test, while games against Czechia and South Korea could secure vital points.
International Highlights
Beyond Brazil, other teams are poised to shine in the 2025 VNL.
Italy
The defending champions, led by 2024 MVP Paola Egonu, dominated Brazil in a 3-0 win in 2025’s first week, boasting a 4-0 record. Italy is a favorite to repeat as champions.
Poland
As the final phase host, Poland benefits from home support. Middle blocker Aga Korneluk stood out with 19 points in a 3-2 win over the Netherlands. After earning bronze in 2024, Poland aims for a higher finish.
Czechia and Belgium
Newcomers Czechia, the Challenger Cup winners, bring fresh energy, while returning Belgium, with experienced players, could surprise.
United States and Japan
The U.S., inaugural champions in 2018, and Japan, 2024 runners-up, are consistent contenders with fast, tactical rosters ready to challenge the favorites.
Impact of the VNL 2025
The VNL is more than a sporting event—it drives global volleyball forward.
For Fans
The VNL 2025 will be streamed live on Volleyball World, with subscriptions required. In Brazil, channels like SporTV and Globo are expected to broadcast the national team’s matches. Volleyball World also offers highlights, stats, and fantasy volleyball leagues to engage fans.
For the Sport
The expansion to 18 teams reflects the growth of women’s volleyball worldwide. The FIVB’s partnership with Microsoft, through the “Microsoft Sports Digital Platform,” will enhance fan experiences with personalized content and innovative broadcasts. The tournament also promotes gender equality with equal prize money for men’s and women’s events.
For Brazil
Hosting the first week in Rio de Janeiro underscores Brazil’s volleyball passion. The Maracanãzinho, a historic venue from the 2016 Olympics, will again take center stage. The national team’s presence at home could inspire young athletes and strengthen the sport domestically.
Conclusion
The FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League 2025 promises to be one of the most thrilling editions yet, with 18 teams, a new relegation system, and Brazil as both a host and a protagonist. Backed by their fans at the Maracanãzinho, the Brazilian team has the potential for a historic campaign in pursuit of their first VNL title. With stars like Gabi and formidable opponents like Italy and Poland, the tournament will be a must-watch for volleyball fans. Get ready to cheer and follow every moment of this journey from June to the crowning of a champion in July!
