The Rules of the Game and Refereeing Commission of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) recently met to outline its strategy for the 2025-2028 period, reaffirming its commitment to integrity and fairness in volleyball. This meeting followed a historic year for the sport, highlighted by a record-breaking season in the 2024 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The commission aims to ensure that athletes, fans, and all stakeholders maintain confidence in the decisions made during the game.

FIVB President Fabio Azevedo opened the meeting, emphasizing the Commission’s crucial role in achieving the objectives set forth in the FIVB’s Strategic Vision 2032. This vision focuses on Game Technology and Integrity, Knowledge Transfer and Sustainability, as well as Social Responsibility and Mass Participation—key elements for the future of volleyball.

FOCUS ON REFEREEING AND TECHNOLOGY

The Commission reviewed the success of the 2024 VNL and assessed its work throughout the year, which included facilitating referee courses worldwide. Discussions also covered plans for the 2025 VNL, the development of refereeing processes, the strengthening of education and training, and the expansion of technology use to enhance decision-making accuracy.

Commission President Guillermo Paredes emphasized the vital role of referees in maintaining the integrity of volleyball, highlighting the need to provide them with the necessary skills and opportunities to ensure confidence, fairness, and integrity in the sport on a global scale.