Despite their VNL rookie status, Ukraine finished an impressive 10th place among 18 teams, delivering several standout performances along the way. They recorded memorable victories over Japan and USA while pushing eventual silver medalists Italy and bronze medalists Brazil to dramatic five-set encounters.
The results signaled that Ukraine had arrived on the international stage not just to participate, but to compete. Ukraine’s rise cannot be complete without mentioning the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme, which has been supporting the Ukraine Volleyball Federation in continuing its volleyball and beach volleyball activities since 2022 as part of an ongoing Memorandum of Understanding. The programme has allocated a total of USD 287,750 to the men’s national team to date.
The support has been critical in keeping the programme active through challenging circumstances, reinforcing technical structures, and securing experienced mentorship. Empowerment support allowed the federation to appoint veteran coach Raul Lozano, a former head coach of Poland, Iran and Germany.
The veteran Italian tactician took over the national team in 2024, bringing decades of top-level experience after successful spells with Argentina and Poland.
Ukraine enjoyed a decent VNL debut in 2025 under the leadership of Italian coach Raul Lozano
Lozano’s arrival marked a new chapter for Ukraine, building on the foundations laid by former head coach Uģis Krastiņš. The Latvian coach led the team from 2017 to 2023 and is widely credited with establishing the framework that sparked Ukraine’s modern resurgence.
Under Lozano’s leadership, Ukraine added tactical discipline and a strong winning mentality to an already promising squad. Following their VNL breakthrough, Ukraine continued their international journey at the 2025 FIVB World Championship. Despite a determined effort, the team was eliminated in the preliminary round. While the campaign ended earlier than hoped, the experience provided valuable lessons as Ukraine continues to develop its competitiveness at the highest level of the sport.
Now placed 17th on the World Rankings, Ukraine return to the VNL for their second appearance, eager to build on the momentum created during their impressive debut.
Ukraine’s middle blocker and captain Yurii Semeniuk celebrates a point during their VNL 2025 match against Bulgaria
The team’s core group of players has also continued to develop into an exciting and balanced lineup. Leading from the front, captain Yurii Semeniuk established himself as one of the world’s top middle blockers, finishing as the leading blocker at VNL 2025.
Alongside him, middle blocker Maksym Drozd provides additional strength at the net, while setter Yurii Synytsia has impressed with his composure and game management at the international level.
Opposite Vasyl Tupchii has emerged as a reliable scoring option, delivering consistent offensive power, while outside hitter Dmytro Yanchuk enjoyed a breakthrough campaign during the VNL 2025. Yanchuk’s versatility and attacking power are complemented by the dynamic play of fellow outside hitter Illa Kovalov.
Defensively, libero Oleksandr Boiko anchors the backcourt with steady reception and strong floor defence.
Ukraine’s outside hitters Dmytro Yanchuk (left) and Illa Kovalov in action against Algeria during the 2025 FIVB Volleyball World Championship
Ukraine will begin their VNL campaign in Week 1 in Linyi, China facing the hosts, Japan, Cuba, Poland from 10 to 14 June.
In Week 2, they travel to Ljubljana, Slovenia to meet Brazil, Italy, Canada and Bulgaria from 24 to 28 June.
The Preliminary Round concludes in Week 3 in Belgrade, Serbia with matches against Iran, Serbia, Germany and Türkiye from 15 to 19 July.
Ukraine’s rapid rise demonstrates the impact of long-term investment in both athletes and development systems. Through the continued collaboration between FIVB and Ukraine Volleyball Federation, the foundations have been laid for sustainable growth.
As the team prepares for another VNL campaign, Ukraine’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that with the right support, structure and vision, emerging volleyball nations can successfully compete on the world stage.
