The poker face is off the table: the CEV Board of Administration has dealt its hand, revealing the recipients of the much-anticipated wildcards for the 2026 edition of the CEV Champions League Volley. This decision, finalized after a thorough review process, confirms the five clubs that will join the continental elite, bypassing the earlier qualification rounds and heading straight to the pool phase.
The opportunity to compete at European volleyball`s highest club level proved incredibly popular, attracting a substantial 17 applications across both men`s and women`s competitions. This keen interest underscores the prestige and desirability of the Champions League title.
After careful deliberation based on criteria that aimed to balance competitive strength with market potential – because even in elite sport, reach matters – five clubs were selected. These teams are strategically important for European volleyball, possess growing fan bases, and offer significant appeal for sponsors and partners.
The Chosen Few: Wildcard Recipients for 2026
The wildcards were distributed as follows:
- For the Men`s Competition (3 wildcards):
- Halkbank ANKARA (Turkey)
- Asseco Resovia RZESZOW (Poland)
- MONTPELLIER HSC VB (France)
- For the Women`s Competition (2 wildcards):
- Zeren Sports Club ANKARA (Turkey)
- Igor Gorgonzola NOVARA (Italy)
These five clubs are set to enter the competition directly at the 4th Round, which is the pool phase. Their inclusion effectively fills the spots that would have been occupied by Russian teams, who remain ineligible for international competition under the current circumstances.
The reintroduction of wildcards is framed by the CEV leadership as a strategic move in the ongoing efforts to modernize the Champions League. It’s a recognition that while sporting merit via rankings is fundamental, a bit of strategic market injection can significantly boost the tournament`s profile and commercial viability. The aim is to ensure a 2026 edition that is not only fiercely competitive but also represents the diverse landscape of European volleyball, entertaining fans and stakeholders alike on an unprecedented scale.
With these established and promising clubs joining the ranks, the road to the 2026 CEV Champions League finals is already shaping up to be an exciting journey filled with high-stakes matches and compelling narratives.
Torin Vale