31 May 2024 – The IOC President attended the launch of the FIVB Foundation on Thursday, at the headquarters of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) in Lausanne.

He was welcomed by FIVB President Dr Ary Graça, who told the audience: “Through the Foundation, we will aim to connect with our 800 million strong fanbase worldwide. We believe in the power of volleyball to unite people in a peaceful and inclusive environment, where everyone can participate. Our goal is to see our sport serve the world.”

President Bach praised the initiative and thanked Dr Graça for his vision in launching the project. “Through this project, volleyball can really contribute to delivering the Olympic values and make the world a better place though sport,” he said. “The IOC already works closely with the FIVB with Olympafrica and the Olympic Refuge Foundation, and with this Foundation this excellent cooperation can be strengthened.”

The existing FIVB Volleyball Empowerment and Development programmes already focus on the development of national teams and National Federations all over the world. The newly launched FIVB Foundation will work alongside these existing volleyball projects by investing in positive social causes, particularly to positively benefit children and families around the globe, while fostering tolerance among communities.