The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) adopted a decision for the chairmen of the referee commissions of the continental confederations to be invited as observers to future meetings of the Rules of the Game and Refereeing Commission. This move is part of the world governing body's efforts for better coordination between the different levels of governance and aims to increase transparency, knowledge exchange, and the standardization of refereeing standards on a global scale. In practice, the decision gives greater weight to the continental structures in the process of discussing and interpreting the rules. The President of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, Lyubomir Ganev, also participated in the meetings of the FIVB Executive Committee and Administrative Board, which took place at the end of last week at the federation's headquarters in Lausanne.
In addition to the refereeing topic, the leadership of world volleyball also discussed a number of strategic projects related to the development of the game. Among them is the progress in creating the new Beach World Series format, which is expected to expand and restructure the beach volleyball calendar. In parallel, FIVB is working on implementing innovations, including artificial intelligence-based solutions, as well as possibilities for remote refereeing. These initiatives are part of the federation's broader strategy until 2032.
The Administrative Board approved the creation of a new award – “The Volleyball Order” – which will replace the existing FIVB Grand Cross and will recognize exceptional contributions to the development of volleyball.
In addition to the other decisions, the FIVB Administrative Board also confirmed that Belarusian athletes and teams are granted the right to return to international tournaments with immediate effect. The decision is in line with the latest recommendations of the International Olympic Committee and will have an impact on the world volleyball calendar.