FIVB Boys’ U17 World Championship:
Iran among 24-team field for revamped showpiece in Doha
Iran will be among the favorites at the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U17 World Championship when the revamped 24-team tournament gets underway in Doha, Qatar, on August 19.
The draw for the pool phase of the competition will take place on March 18.
The inaugural edition of the tournament – featuring 16 teams – was held in Sofia, Bulgaria, in August 2024. Iran suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to Italy in the quarterfinals but bounced back with victories over Brazil (3-0) and Belgium (3-2) to secure a consolation fifth-place finish.
Italy will arrive in Doha as the defending champion after defeating Argentina in a five-set thriller in the 2024 final. The Europeans will be joined by Spain, France, Poland, Czechia, Romania, Türkiye and Bulgaria, highlighting the depth of the continent’s field following qualification through the CEV pathway.
Host nation Qatar qualifies automatically, while Pakistan, Iran, India, Japan and Chinese Taipei secured their spots through last year’s Asian U16 Championship in Thailand, underscoring the continent’s strong commitment to youth development.
Iran surrendered a two-set lead in the continental final in Thailand, eventually falling 3-2 to Pakistan.
From South America, Argentina will compete alongside Brazil and Venezuela. Puerto Rico, Cuba, the United States and Mexico complete the NORCECA contingent.
Africa will be represented by Egypt, Tunisia and Algeria.