World ParaVolley is proud to announce the official signing of the contract to host the 2026 Sitting Volleyball World Championships, a premier international event which will bring together the world’s top sitting volleyball athletes for an extraordinary display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
This historic tournament will take place in July 2026 at the World ParaVolley Development Centre in Hangzhou, China, assembling the world’s top sitting volleyball teams to compete at the highest level. As a leading advocate for para-sports and inclusive athletic opportunities, World ParaVolley is committed to delivering an unforgettable experience for athletes, fans, and spectators alike.
“After an extensive dialogue with the local organizing committee we are extremely happy to announce the contract signature for the 2026 Sitting Volleyball World Championships for Women and Men. Hangzhou has already successfully hosted this year’s ParaVolley Asia-Oceania Zonal Championships. The Worlds will kick us off into the qualification race for the LA28 Paralympics – so we can expect thrilling matches for the global crown and for the first tickets to LA28 to be awarded.”
– Mr. Juergen Schrapp, President of World ParaVolley
“We sincerely appreciate WPV’s trust and support in entrusting us with hosting the 2026 WPV Sitting Volleyball World Championship! We will go all out, prepare with great care, and strive to present a wonderful and successful sports event!”
– Mr. Lu Cailiang, President of ParaVolley Asia-Oceania and Director of the World ParaVolley Development Centre, Hangzhou
The championships, are set to feature 32 participating teams – 16 per gender. Teams have already started to qualify for the event via the four 2025 Zonal Championships in Africa, Asia-Oceania, Europe, and Pan America.
“I am excited that the 2026 World Championships will be held in Hangzhou, China. It’s the first time the World Championships s have been held in Asia, the first of our LA28 qualification events, and the first time that the challenge system will be used at this level of event.
It is a great facility, so we expect some spectacular matches between our teams that have already been qualifying via their 2025 Zonal Championships.
– Dr. Stephen Giugni, Sport Director of World ParaVolley
Follow the 2026 World Championships qualification pathway here: https://worldparavolley.org/2026wchqualificationpathway/
The Championships will feature state-of-the-art facilities and a comprehensive program designed to maximize visibility and engagement. Organizers are already working closely with local partners to ensure a memorable experience for athletes, spectators, and viewers around the world.