The 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship, hosted for the first time in the Philippines, marks a new era for the sport. With an expanded 32-team format and a biennial schedule, the competition from September 12-28 promises unprecedented global excitement. This tournament represents a critical juncture for the world’s elite volleyball teams, where established giants will defend their legacies against hungry challengers on a global stage.
In fact, established powerhouses and ambitious challengers will collide in Manila, each with a unique narrative driving their quest for the title. Analysing team dynamics and recent performances provides a clearer picture of the potential champions. To view the seeding of these top teams and their path through the tournament, click here to visit Vegas Insider for a comprehensive odds overview. Therefore, understanding the favourites is key to appreciating the high stakes of this global volleyball event.
Here are the five teams most likely to battle for the coveted world title.
Poland, the Top Contender
As the world’s number one ranked team, Poland enters the championship as a clear favourite. Their roster is a formidable force, featuring the world’s top-ranked spiker, Wilfredo León, and VNL MVP Jakub Kochanowski. Despite their consistent dominance and a recent VNL title, a persistent narrative of falling short in the most crucial finals follows them. Still, this tournament is their prime opportunity to silence the doubters and solidify their status as the undisputed kings of volleyball.
Italy, the Reigning Champions
Italy arrives in Manila as the team to beat. As the defending 2022 World Champions, they possess a championship pedigree and a core group that knows how to win. Their offence is masterfully directed by Simone Giannelli, widely considered the best setter in the world. Still, recent losses in the VNL final and the Olympic bronze medal match show potential vulnerabilities. Their journey will be a test of resilience as they seek to defend their crown.
France, the Olympic Kings
France possesses the ultimate trump card two consecutive Olympic gold medals. This achievement cements their place as one of the most dominant teams of this generation. Led by two-time Olympic MVP Earvin N’gapeth, their dynamic and creative style is difficult to counter. However, the World Championship trophy is the one major prize missing from their collection. Due to this, their campaign is about more than another title; rather, it is about achieving a career grand slam.
Brazil, the Legacy Powerhouse
A list of favourites would be incomplete without Brazil. As the world’s third-ranked team, they are a perennial force in men’s volleyball. With a deep roster including stars like Ricardo Lucarelli and Darlan Souza, they have the talent to defeat any opponent. It has, however, been 15 years since their last world title. This tournament represents a chance for a new generation of Brazilian athletes to reclaim the glory of their legendary predecessors.
USA, the Rising Threat
The USA is positioned as a serious dark horse contender. Buoyed by their bronze medal finish at the Paris Olympics, the team is riding a wave of new momentum. The return of star setter Micah Christenson provides a significant boost in leadership and tactical discipline. Especially after back-to-back runner-up placements in the VNL, the American squad appears ready to challenge the top-tier teams for a spot on the podium.