Polish women's national volleyball team in EuroVolley 2026

The 2026 Women’s European Volleyball Championship has officially commenced, hosted across Turkey, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Azerbaijan. The Polish national team enters the tournament with significant medal potential, despite currently being ranked fifth in the FIVB standings.

Poland is placed in Group A alongside Turkey, Germany, Hungary, Slovenia, and Latvia. Analysts emphasize that securing a top position within the group is vital to avoid facing powerhouses such as the Netherlands or Belgium in the early knockout stages. While the team did not qualify for the Volleyball Nations League finals this year, head coach Stefano Lavarini remains optimistic, noting the team’s high levels of motivation and concentration.

Following a victory over Portugal, the Polish team has successfully advanced to the quarterfinals. They are now preparing to face the Netherlands in an attempt to reach the medal zone. This tournament also marks a milestone for the coaching staff, as Agnieszka Rabka has joined as an assistant coach, making it the first time a woman has been part of the staff during Lavarini's tenure. Rabka noted the challenges women face in breaking into high-level coaching roles.

Other tournament developments include a strong start by Italy in Gothenburg, Sweden. Led by 74-year-old head coach Julio Velasco, the Italian team secured a 2-0 lead in their opening match against Croatia. Italy, considered the favorites, later secured a quarterfinal victory against Sweden, despite significant resistance from Swedish player Isabelle Haak.