The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) imposed disciplinary sanctions on three well-known national coaches for violations during matches of the 2026 Nations League. The decisions were made by the Sub-Commission of the FIVB Disciplinary Panel "," the independent body that reviews violations in tournaments under the auspices of the world governing body.
Among those sanctioned are the head coach of the Chinese men's national team Vital Heynen, the coach of the Canadian women's national team Giovanni Guidetti, and the coach of the Brazilian women's national team José Roberto Guimarães.

Warning for Vital Heynen

Belgian specialist Vital Heynen has been found guilty of violating Article 8.3 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations. The reason is the use of offensive language during an interview after the match between China and Slovenia in the men's Nations League, held on June 10, 2026.
As a result, Heynen receives an official warning and is obliged to strictly adhere to the FIVB regulatory framework during all future competitions under the federation's auspices.

Fine for Giovanni Guidetti

The Sub-Commission has found that Giovanni Guidetti violated the same article of the regulations due to his reaction to a referee's decision during the match between Canada and Japan in the women's Nations League on June 7.
The Italian specialist has been sanctioned with a fine of 1500 Swiss francs. In addition to the financial penalty, he also receives an official warning that future violations may lead to more severe disciplinary measures.

One-match suspension for José Roberto

The most severe sanction has been imposed on the legendary Brazilian coach José Roberto Guimarães. According to the disciplinary body's decision, he exhibited improper conduct towards another member of the global volleyball movement, which also constitutes a violation of Article 8.3 of the regulations. This refers to the "Seleção" match against Italy, where the Olympic champions lost the encounter 2:3.
Guimarães has been suspended from performing his duties for one official match. The sanction was served during the next match of the Brazilian women's national team in the 2026 Nations League against the French team, which is being played today.
Similar to Guidetti, the Brazilian specialist also received an official warning for future adherence to disciplinary regulations.

The decisions are final

The FIVB clarified that all three decisions are final and not subject to appeal. Due to the fact that the violations were committed during the competition itself, the disciplinary proceedings were conducted under an expedited procedure.
The world federation emphasizes that it remains committed to upholding the principles of respect, fair play, and integrity in volleyball and will continue to work collaboratively with national federations to promote these values within the global volleyball community.

photos:volleyballworld.com