Sport

Iran’s women’s sitting volleyball team has qualified for the 2026 World Championships after a remarkable run at the Asia-Oceania Championships, signaling a new chapter for the sport on the international stage.

Iran Secures World Championship Spot

The Iranian women’s national sitting volleyball team earned their place at the 2026 World ParaVolley Championships following an impressive performance at the 2025 Asia-Oceania Championships. With a strong showing throughout the tournament, the team not only claimed the runner-up title but also secured a spot in the world competition to be held in Hangzhou, China.

Technical Advisor Rezaei Applauds Team Progress

Hadi Rezaei, technical advisor to the women’s team and a veteran of the sport, praised the athletes’ performance and growth. Rezaei, who accompanied the team throughout the championship, described the results as a major achievement—especially considering the tactical changes introduced before the tournament.

“Given the adjustments we made to the team’s tactics, we didn’t expect to win the championship this time. Our realistic goal was to repeat our previous second-place finish, which we achieved. But more importantly, the players performed better than ever,” Rezaei noted.

A Step Forward in Performance

Rezaei highlighted that the team’s overall quality has improved significantly. He pointed to match statistics and scoring trends that demonstrated a clear leap forward in performance.

“In our previous meeting with Japan, we won 3–1. This time, we beat them 3–0, which speaks volumes. Although we lost to China in the final, the match was far more competitive than in past encounters. The rallies were longer, and we scored more points—this wasn’t a one-sided game,” he explained.

More Than Just a Silver Medal

Despite finishing second—as they did in the previous championship—Rezaei emphasized that this year’s result carries greater weight. “The team showed more resistance and discipline than ever before. The silver medal isn’t just a repeat; it reflects a stronger, more cohesive unit,” he said.

Long-Term Vision Needed for Continued Success

Looking to the future, Rezaei stressed the importance of regular training camps and international exposure. He urged the Iran Sports Federation for the Disabled to adopt a long-term development plan rather than preparing solely for individual events.

“This team has the potential to achieve even more,” he said. “But it requires consistent support throughout the year—not just ahead of major tournaments.”

Hangzhou 2026: The Next Big Stage

The 2026 Sitting Volleyball World Championships will take place in Hangzhou in July 2026, featuring 16 teams in both the men’s and women’s divisions. Iran’s women’s team earned their qualification through the Asia-Oceania pathway, while the men’s team secured automatic entry thanks to their Paralympic gold medal performance.

With growing momentum and international recognition, Iran’s women are now poised to make a powerful statement on the world stage—cementing their place among the sport’s elite.

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From: shahraranews