Iran NPC, Tehran- In an exclusive interview with Iran’s National Paralympic Committee, Hadi Rezaei, the esteemed head coach of Iran’s national sitting volleyball team, shared his insights on the upcoming 2025 Sitting Volleyball World Championships and the path to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. Here’s what the legendary coach revealed about his team’s ambitions and the fierce competition ahead.
Q: Coach Rezaei, you’ve just announced major news about the 2025 Sitting Volleyball World Championships. Can you share the details?
Hadi Rezaei: We’re absolutely pumped! The World Championships are confirmed for July 20-30, 2025, in Hangzhou, China. This is a critical event, with the top men’s and women’s teams securing direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. It’s a huge opportunity, and we’re ready to make our mark!
Q: How important is this championship for Iran’s teams?
Rezaei: It’s a massive moment! Our men’s team, as defending world champions, has already earned a spot in Hangzhou. We’re determined to defend our crown and lock in that Paralympic berth early. For our women’s team, the road goes through the ongoing Asia-Oceania Championships in China. A top-three finish there will secure their place in the World Championships. The stakes are sky-high, but our athletes are prepared to deliver.
Q: Can you explain the Paralympic qualification process for LA 2028?
Rezaei: Certainly. The men’s and women’s world champions in Hangzhou will earn automatic qualification for LA 2028. Beyond that, seven additional spots are available: one for the host nation, four for the top teams from each continent, and two through various qualification tournaments. It’s a challenging path, but we’re focused on dominating in Hangzhou to streamline our journey.
Q: The women’s team is currently competing in the Asia-Oceania Championships. How are they performing?
Rezaei: The women’s team is in high spirits and ready to compete. They’re facing tough opponents like China, Japan, Thailand, and Australia. Their opening match against Australia is crucial, and I’m confident they’ll bring their best. A top-three finish is essential for World Championship qualification, and I believe they have what it takes to shine.
Q: What’s your message to the fans as Iran gears up for these high-stakes events?
Rezaei: To our incredible fans, your support drives us forward! Our teams are training relentlessly to represent Iran with pride. The journey to LA 2028 begins now, and we need your energy to fuel us in Hangzhou and beyond.
Let’s make history together! With Coach Hadi Rezaei leading the charge, Iran’s sitting volleyball teams are set for an exhilarating campaign.
Iran’s men’s sitting volleyball team has secured eight Paralympic golds and eight World Championship titles, dominating the sport with unmatched skill under coach Hadi Rezaei. Their victories, spanning Seoul 1988 to Paris 2024, mark them as the most successful team in sitting volleyball history.
Stay tuned for updates as they pursue Paralympic glory!
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