World Beach Volleyball Championship kicks off, war‑hit Gulf nations pull out

BHUBANESWAR: Bhubaneswar is set to host the World Beach Volleyball Championship (Men & Women) 2026 from March 4 onwards with 50 countrie participating. However, two major teams from the war-hit Gulf region—UAE and Qatar—have officially withdrawn from the championship citing the escalating situation in their countries. The absence of the two teams, which have historically performed strongly in global beach volleyball circuits, has cast a shadow of concern even as organisers said the tournament will move forward with full competitive spirit. The last edition of the championship was held at Adelaide.India is hosting the championship after a gap of three years, with Goa being the previous venue. This is also the first time the championship is being held on an academic campus rather than a natural beach, a move organisers described as a bold experiment to bring global sports closer to youth. The organisers, KIIT university constructed a massive sand arena, spectator stands and training zones to simulate a beach environment. The entire university zone has been themed around coastal motifs, making it one of the largest sport-specific temporary transformations ever undertaken by a private campus in the country. The event is expected to bring a significant tourism boost to Odisha, especially Bhubaneswar and nearby coastal destinations like Puri and Konark. With hundreds of athletes, officials, support staff and international visitors arriving, hotel occupancy has surged and travel operators are reporting increased bookings for tourist sites. Tourism experts say the global broadcast of the event will also promote Odisha as a capable host for large-format international sporting competitions. “Odisha has already earned a reputation as the sports capital of India through hockey and athletics events. This championship strengthens that image,” said an organiser associated with the event. Acknowledging the pullout by UAE and Qatar, organisers said that the situation was unfortunate but understandable. “We are saddened that two strong teams from the Gulf region cannot participate because of the ongoing conflict. Their safety is paramount. But the championship remains incredibly competitive,” the organisers said. Calling the championship at KIIT historic, they added: “We are proud to create a world-class beach volleyball arena on campus. The Volleyball Federation of India (VFI), too, expressed confidence in the event’s success. “This is a unique venue and a unique opportunity for India,” said a senior VFI official. Teams have already begun arriving in Bhubaneswar, with practice sessions scheduled throughout Tuesday. Matches will officially begin Wednesday morning, with the finals slated for March 8. Despite geopolitical uncertainties affecting participation, organisers believe the event will set new benchmarks and inspire young athletes across India.