CEV President visits Azerbaijan, expects memorable CEV EuroVolley Women in 2026

CEV President Roko Sikirić travelled to Azerbaijan earlier this week where accompanied by the leadership of the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation (AVF), he visited a variety of historically relevant places and had a series of high-profile meetings with national authorities from a country that is well-known for its rich Volleyball history and unwavering passion for the game.

The programme started with a visit to the Alley of Honour where the CEV President and AVF representatives paid their respects to the memory of the late national leader and Azerbaijan’s former President, Heydar Aliyev and laid flowers at his grave. They did so also when visiting the resting place of the renowned ophthalmologist, scientist, and academician Zarifa Aliyeva. The CEV President did also visit the Alley of Martyrs, which hosts the graves of Azerbaijani soldiers who have perished to protect the independence and territorial integrity of the Caucasus country.

Later on Thursday, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov hosted Mr Sikirić as well as the President of the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation, Shahin Baghirov. The Prime Minister was extremely pleased with the time taken by the leader of the European Volleyball family to visit his home country and with his participation in the official closing ceremony of the Azerbaijani national league. 

The CEV President did indeed follow the final matches of the women’s and men’s leagues held at the National Gymnastics Arena on April 24-25, and was involved in the subsequent awarding ceremonies as well. The winners were determined after two final matches, eventually followed by a Golden Set if there was a tie in wins. 

In the women’s finals Azerrail retained their title from 2024 after a Golden Set victory over Absheron. The bronze medals were taken by the players representing the National Aviation Academy. Azerrail emerged as the winners of the men’s national league as well as they beat Murov Az Terminal. Team Khilasedici claimed the third place.

The CEV President’s agenda included also a meeting with the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Farid Gayibov. The parties discussed the current cooperation as well as the potential implementation of additional joint development projects. The head of the Ministry’s Sports Department Elnur Mammadov, the Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation Faig Orujov and CEV Board of Administration member Jalil Jafarov did all attend this meeting as well. 

During his stay in Baku, Mr Sikirić also met with children and other young players as well as with their coaches, thereby providing an extra bit of motivation to the growth of the next generation of Azerbaijani stars. The CEV President emphasised that he was impressed with the level on display in the organisation of the national league finals at the National Gymnastics Arena, where CEV EuroVolley 2026 Women matches will be taking place as well. Mr Sikirić expressed his confidence that the continental event is in good hands and will delivered in compliance with the highest standards.