The 2020 FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) has been postponed until after the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games due to the pandemic coronavirus (COVID-19), according to a statement released by the FIVB on Friday morning.
The U.S. Men’s National Team was set to host Brazil, Canada and Argentina May 22-24 at the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, Pa. The U.S. Women’s National Team, which is the two-time defending VNL champions, was scheduled to host Japan, Turkey and Belgium June 9-11 at Koch Arena on the Wichita State University campus in Kansas.
“The FIVB, in close consultation with all participating National Federations and relevant authorities, and with the approval of the FIVB Board of Administration, has decided to postpone the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2020 until after the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020,” the FIVB statement read. “The health and well-being of athletes, officials and fans are the FIVB’s highest priority and this precautionary measure is being adopted in the best interests of everyone involved.”
The FIVB statement continued: “The decision to postpone the VNL will ensure that athletes can focus on looking after their health and fitness, and will enable national leagues, that are currently having to suspend events, to conclude their seasons when the situation improves. The FIVB is, of course, looking to the future with optimism, and is working closely with the relevant National Federations and event organizers to find an appropriate date to host the VNL after the Olympic Games.”
For fans wishing to receive refunds for the women’s VNL matches in Wichita, please contact the Wichita State University ticket office at 316-978-3267.