The Bulgarian Volleyball Federation (BVF) received funding from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) under a special program to support national teams with foreign coaches. Bulgaria's approved application provides $84,000 for the salary of the men's national team head coach, Gianlorenzo Blengini, for a period of two years.

The Volleyball Empowerment program was created to support national federations and teams in developing their full potential through the inclusion of foreign experts.

"We are extremely pleased with the work of Gianlorenzo Blengini and the growth of the men's national team under his leadership. At the same time, we are responsible with our expenses and therefore seek all opportunities for additional funding. The FIVB's Volleyball Empowerment program is precisely such an opportunity," stated the President of the BVF, Lubomir Ganev.

Ganev recalled that Bulgaria already has successful experience with the initiative – for 2023 and 2024, funds were provided for the engagement of Lorenzo Micelli with the women's national team. "Now we are happy that we have succeeded again and the FIVB has granted us funds for a new two-year period for Gianlorenzo Blengini. This will allow us to maximize the potential of a very talented generation of players and bring joy to Bulgarian fans," he added.

This funding is an important step for the stabilization and development of Bulgarian men's volleyball at the highest level and confirms the international federation's trust in the work of the national team and its coach.