USA and Belgium Win Gold as FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026 Concludes at KIIT University
BHUBANESWAR, India – March 10, 2026 – The FIVB Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026 concluded on March 8, 2026, at the Dutee Chand Athletic Stadium of KIIT Deemed to be University in Bhubaneswar, India, marking five days of high-level international beach volleyball competition.1
The tournament, hosted by KIIT Deemed to be University, attracted 83 teams from 52 countries, with over 300 players and officials participating.1 The event fostered a vibrant sporting atmosphere on the KIIT campus and drew significant spectator attendance.
Women’s Gold Medal Match
In the Women’s Gold Medal Match, the American duo of Durish and Koenig faced the Japanese pair of Shiba and Reika. The U.S. Team secured a straight-set victory with scores of 21-18 and 21-16, claiming the gold medal.1 The Japanese team earned the silver medal after a competitive contest.
Men’s Gold Medal Match
The Men’s Gold Medal Match featured Sepka and Dzavoronok of the Czech Republic against Vercauteren and Van Langendonck of Belgium. The Belgian team delivered a composed performance, winning in straight sets with scores of 21-10 and 22-20, to secure the championship title.1 The Czech team finished as runners-up, taking home the silver medal.
Closing Ceremony and Recognition
The closing ceremony included a welcome and congratulatory address by Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, and a Board Member of the Strategic Council of the Volleyball Foundation (FIVB).1 Messages of congratulations were also shared from Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Honorable Governor of Odisha, and Shri Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Hon’ble Union Minister of Labor and Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
Referees and officials were felicitated for their contributions to the tournament’s success. Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor of KIIT Deemed to be University, expressed gratitude to the teams, officials, organizers, volunteers, and supporters.
KIIT University’s Milestone
KIIT University became the first university in India to host an FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge series event.1 The tournament was inaugurated on March 4 by Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan, Hon’ble Minister of Law, Works and Excise, Government of Odisha.
Participants praised the world-class sports infrastructure, professional organization, and hospitality provided by KIIT University.1