DOHA – The curtain came down on the FIVB Volleyball Boys' U17 World Championship Qatar 2026 in a thrilling finale marked by outstanding sportsmanship and fierce competition, as Iran were crowned world champions after defeating European runners-up France in the final at the Women's Sports Arena, Aspire Zone, on Saturday.
The prestigious final was attended by H.E. Mr. Mohammed Bin Yousef Al Mana, First Vice President of the Qatar Olympic Committee; H.E. Sheikh Saud Bin Ali Al Thani, President of FIBA; Mr. Ali bin Ghanim Al Kuwari, President of the Qatar Volleyball Association and the West Asia Volleyball Association; H.E. Mr. Jassim Bin Rashid Al Buenain, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee; and FIVB President Fabio Azevedo of Brazil.
The distinguished gathering also included Yousuf Ahmed Kano, QVA Secretary-General and Championship Executive Director; Assistant Secretary-General Saeed Salem Al Jumaani; QVA Board Members Ibrahim Mohammed Al Naama, Mohammed Salem Al Kuwari, Saeed Jumaa Al-Hitmi and Amna Barakat Al Kuwari; and members of the diplomatic corps. They were joined by a vibrant crowd representing Iranian, French, Brazilian and Argentine communities, alongside passionate volleyball supporters.
In a thrilling and fiercely contested final, Iran produced an outstanding performance, asserting their authority and technical superiority over France through a well-rounded display that combined solid blocking, resilient defence and powerful attacking play. Iran secured a 3-1 victory, winning 25-18, 25-15, 22-25 and 25-12, to deservedly claim the world title at the FIVB Volleyball Boys' U17 World Championship Qatar 2026.
In an all-South American battle for third place, Brazil overcame traditional rivals Argentina 3-1, winning 21-25, 25-17, 25-18 and 25-13 to secure the bronze medal and complete the championship podium.
In a moment symbolising the lasting legacy of sport and the continuity of achievement across generations, the medal ceremony took on a special significance through an FIVB initiative. Polish volleyball star Jakub Kochanowski presented the bronze medal to Brazil, creating a memorable tribute to achievement and the enduring spirit of the game.
The celebrations reached their culmination as Qatar's Olympic champions Sherif Younes and Ahmed Tijan crowned Iran with the gold medal and championship trophy, while France, the runners-up, were presented with the silver medal in a memorable and highly celebratory ceremony.
The individual awards celebrated some of the tournament's brightest stars. Iran's Akam Ebrahimnezhad won Best Setter, France's Ebagne Yon Jaden took Best Outside Hitter 1, and Argentina's Bianchi Valentin Tomas claimed Best Outside Hitter 2. Iran's Monib Sheikh was named Best Middle Blocker 1, Brazil's Lucas Pereira de Abreu Best Middle Blocker 2, and France's Agnese Corentin Best Libero. Iran's Sina Hazrati completed the honours with two awards: Best Opposite and MVP.