2027 Women’s Volleyball Nations League
The 2027 Women’s Volleyball Nations League runs from 31 May–25 July with a one-edition expansion to 19 teams. Russia and Slovenia are confirmed in the field; full format details are pending.
2027 Women's Tournament Preview
The 2027 Women’s Volleyball Nations League is scheduled for 31 May–25 July 2027 and will expand from 18 to 19 teams for this edition only.
FIVB has confirmed Russia’s return to the VNL as the highest-ranked team not yet qualified and stated that the 19-team expansion will also ensure Slovenia’s participation. The federation is reviewing the competition format needed for the expanded field, so the complete lineup, host pools and revised schedule structure will be added once officially published.
Why This Upcoming Edition Matters
The one-year expansion makes the 2027 VNL structurally unusual. It preserves places that had already been earned through sporting performance while accommodating Russia’s confirmed return to world competition.
Because FIVB explicitly said it is reviewing the format, carrying the 2026 schedule model forward as if it were settled would be premature. The safest current record is the 19-team field size, the confirmed Russia and Slovenia participation, and the official competition window.
Confirmed Format, Qualification & Host Information
For 2027 only, the women’s VNL will have 19 teams instead of 18. FIVB has confirmed Russia’s participation and said the expansion ensures Slovenia remains in the competition.
FIVB has not yet published the final 19-team competition format, full field, host cities or pool assignments. Those details will be added when the revised format is announced.
Confirmed Milestones
ONE-YEAR EXPANSION
The VNL grows to 19 teams in 2027
FIVB specified that the expansion applies to the 2027 edition only.
RUSSIA RETURNS
Russia is confirmed for the women’s VNL
The national team returns as the highest-ranked team not yet qualified for the competition.
SLOVENIA RETAINED
The expanded field protects Slovenia’s place
FIVB said the 19-team structure ensures Slovenia participates based on its performances across previous seasons.
Place in Tournament History
2027 Women's Edition FAQ
When is the 2027 Women’s VNL?
FIVB’s calendar lists 31 May–25 July 2027.
How many teams will play?
Nineteen teams will compete in the 2027 women’s edition.
Are all 19 teams confirmed?
FIVB has confirmed Russia and specifically guaranteed Slovenia’s participation, but the complete field and host pools have not yet been published in the final revised format announcement.
Why are there 19 teams?
FIVB expanded the competition for 2027 only as part of the roadmap for Russia’s return while preserving Slovenia’s earned participation.