This week at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines, 37-year-old Argentine setter Luciano De Cecco wrote his name in golden letters in the history of world volleyball. Entering the game from the third set in the dramatic 3-2 victory over Finland (19-25, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-11) in the first match of Group C at the 2025 World Championship, he became the first volleyball player in the world, across both genders, with six consecutive World Championship appearances. This was noted today by the official website of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)

Decisive Role in the Comeback Against Finland

Coach Marcelo Rodolfo Méndez started the match with young Matías Sánchez Pahes, but after losing two sets, he turned to the experience and composure of De Cecco. The veteran's entry completely changed the rhythm of the game, as he directed the "Albiceleste" attacks on the path to a comeback and success in the tiebreak.

A Career Filled with Consistency and Class

De Cecco debuted at the World Championship back in 2006, when he was just 18 years old. This was followed by participations in 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2025. He has been part of Argentina's national team for 19 years, consistently being among the leaders and spiritual guides of the squad.

Although the "Gauchos" still don't have a World Championship medal, De Cecco led his country to bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and has four consecutive Olympic participations behind him – London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024.

Performances in Club Volleyball

At the club level, De Cecco is a true global ambassador of Argentine volleyball. He has played in Italy and Poland, and is currently part of Polish team Steam Hemarpol Politechnika Częstochowa. His collection includes three Serie A titles, four Italian Cups, as well as honors from the CEV Champions League and the Club World Championship.

"Playing for Argentina is the Greatest Happiness"

After the match against Finland, the captain shared:

"I always want the best for Argentina. If I can help my country reach the highest level – that's enough for me. I don't know if this is my last World Championship, but playing for Argentina is the best experience of my life and I am very happy."

Looking to the Future

It remains to be seen whether it will be in Manila that De Cecco will receive his "coronation" and whether he will lead Argentina to a historic World Championship medal. But even without a medal, his place among the legends of world volleyball is already secure.

photo: FIVB