USA and Belgium Clinch Gold Medals at 2026 FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge in Bhubaneswar

Conclusion of the FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026

The prestigious FIVB Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026 concluded on March 8, 2026, hosted at the Dutee Chand Athletic Stadium in KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar. This year’s event was remarkable, gathering 83 teams representing 52 countries, highlighting the spirit of international competition in beach volleyball.

Over the five days of intense matches, the competition was fierce, drawing an enthusiastic crowd that filled the stands to support their favorite teams. The tournament showcased exceptional athletes, with over 300 players and officials participating, making it a thrilling experience not only for competitors but also for spectators.

In the gold medal match for the women’s category, the Japanese duo of Shiba and Reika faced off against the American pair Durish and Koenig. Demonstrating remarkable synergy and offensive prowess, the American team secured their victory with a straight-set win of 2-0, scoring 21-18 and 21-16 in each set. Meanwhile, the Japanese team earned a well-deserved silver medal after an impressive tournament run.

The men’s gold medal match was highly anticipated, featuring a battle between the Czech team of Sepka and Dzavoronok against Belgium's Vercauteren and Van Langendonck. It was a nail-biting competition where the Belgian team exhibited calmness and skill, ultimately winning in two sets with scores of 21-10 and 22-20. The Czech team concluded the tournament in a commendable second place, taking home the silver medal.

The tournament's closing ceremony included heartfelt speeches from prominent figures, including Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT and KISS, who expressed congratulations to the winning teams while praising the high level of competition witnessed throughout the event. He stated, “It was a pleasure to host 300 players and officials on our campus, and we ensured excellent arrangements for their stay. The hospitality provided by KIIT was appreciated by all.”

A recorded message from the Honorable Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, was shared during the ceremony, while Shri Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, India's Minister of Labour and Employment, sent a video message commending the organizers and participants for their efforts in making this prestigious event a success.

Officials and referees were acknowledged for their invaluable contributions to the tournament's successful execution. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from Professor (Dr.) Saranjit Singh, Vice-Chancellor of KIIT Deemed to be University, who thanked all international teams, officials, organizers, volunteers, and spectators for their role in ensuring the event's success.

The hosting of the FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge marks a significant milestone for KIIT, making it the first Indian university to host a series event of this caliber. The tournament was officially inaugurated by Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan, the Hon'ble Minister for Law, Works and Excise of Odisha, in the presence of international delegates and sports officials.

Participants lauded the world-class sports infrastructure, professional organization, and outstanding hospitality from KIIT, with many commenting on the excellent accommodations, dining, and overall environment created for athletes and officials.

As the tournament concluded amidst enthusiastic applause, it was clear that the event not only celebrated high-level volleyball competition but also brought cultures together in a shared passion for sports at KIIT University in Bhubaneswar.