Big Setback For Indian Volleyball As International Body Withdraws Recognition Of Volleyball Federation Of India

Indian volleyball has suffered a major governance blow after the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) withdrew its recognition of the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI) with immediate effect, citing violations of legal and administrative requirements .

The decision, announced on Tuesday, comes amid growing internal unrest within Indian volleyball, including recent complaints from senior players over poor training conditions, unscientific support systems, and alleged selection irregularities .

In its statement, the FIVB said its Board of Administration found that the interim leadership of the VFI had failed to meet essential governance standards. As a result, the federation’s provisional recognition was revoked and administrative control has been handed over to a newly constituted Steering Committee .

The committee includes representatives from the FIVB and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and has been tasked with ensuring smooth functioning of the sport in India during the transitional phase. Its responsibilities include setting up an Athletes’ Commission , conducting state association elections , and aligning the VFI constitution with global governance norms.

It will also oversee a transparent, merit-based national selection system , coordinate upcoming competitions, and provide technical and high-performance support under the FIVB’s empowerment programme. As part of this initiative, the global body has committed USD 258,000 in 2026 towards athlete development and national team support across both men’s and women’s volleyball.

The move comes days after controversy erupted in a national camp in Ahmedabad, where two senior players reportedly withdrew, alleging poor facilities, lack of recovery systems, and political interference in selection , while also criticising coaching standards. The federation has denied the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.

Despite the turmoil, India is set to host the Asian Volleyball Confederation Men’s Cup in June, raising questions over preparedness and administrative stability.

With global intervention now in place, Indian volleyball faces a critical phase of restructuring, with the focus shifting firmly toward transparency, accountability, and rebuilding trust in the system.