Cucine Lube Civitanova's libero and captain, Fabio Balaso, put an end to all speculation about his future after renewing his contract with the Italian giant until 2029. The new agreement extends the Italian national team player's stay by another two years compared to his previous contract, which was valid until 2027.
The 30-year-old Balaso is starting his ninth season with Lube, where he has become one of the club's emblems and its captain. After his participation with Italy in the Volleyball Nations League, the libero confirmed his desire to further tie his future to the club with which he has won national, European, and world titles.
Before joining Civitanova in the 2018/19 season, Balaso played for his hometown Padua in Serie A2 and SuperLega. With Lube, he won the Champions League in 2019, the Club World Championship also in 2019, three Italian Cups (2020, 2021, and 2025), and three national championship titles (2019, 2021, and 2022).
His successes with the national team are also impressive – world champion in 2022 and 2025, European champion in 2021, and a gold medalist at the Mediterranean Games in 2018.
"I am proud and happy to continue my story with Cucine Lube Civitanova. The trust the club continues to place in me was crucial for this renewal. The fact that Lube continues to believe in my qualities is a huge motivation to pursue new successes and makes me truly happy. When I received the offer, it took me very little time to make my decision. I am extremely attached to the club, to this jersey, and to our fans," Balaso stated.
The news is also excellent for Bulgarian national players Aleksandar Nikolov and Simeon Nikolov, who will defend Lube's colors next season. Thus, they will be able to rely on one of the best liberos in the world, who will continue to be a leader and captain of the team.

photo: Nikolay Varadinov