FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026 at KIIT University Successfully Concludes
KIIT Makes History as First Indian University to Host FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge
The FIVB Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge 2026, hosted by KIIT University, concluded successfully at the Dutee Chand Athletic Stadium in Bhubaneswar after five days of high-intensity competition and international sporting spirit.
The prestigious tournament brought together 83 teams from 52 countries, with more than 300 players and officials participating in the championship, making it one of the largest international beach volleyball events ever hosted in India.
Gold Medal Winners
- Women’s Gold Medal – United States: Durish / Koenig
- Men’s Gold Medal – Belgium: Vercauteren / Van Langendonck
Historic Moment for KIIT and India
The event marked a historic milestone as KIIT University became the first university in India to host an event of the FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge series, bringing global sporting attention to the state of Odisha and to India’s growing role in international sports.
The tournament was formally inaugurated on March 4 by Prithiviraj Harichandan, Odisha’s Minister for Law, Works and Excise, in the presence of Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, Blair Harrison, Technical Delegate of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball, and Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor of KIIT University, along with several international delegates and sports officials.
World-Class Facilities and Hospitality
Throughout the tournament, spectators witnessed thrilling matches featuring some of the world’s leading beach volleyball players.
“All **300 players and officials were accommodated at the KIIT campus. We made very good arrangements for their stay inside the campus, and all of them were happy with KIIT hospitality,” said Dr. Achyuta Samanta.
The championship created a vibrant sporting atmosphere on the KIIT campus and attracted large numbers of sports enthusiasts. International players and officials praised the world-class infrastructure, professional organisation and warm hospitality provided by KIIT University.
Many participants expressed appreciation for the excellent facilities and the welcoming environment created for athletes from across the globe.
Key Highlights
- KIIT University became the first university in India to host an FIVB Beach Pro Tour Challenge event.
- The tournament featured 83 teams from 52 countries.
- Over 300 players and officials participated in the championship.
- The five-day event was held at Dutee Chand Athletic Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
- International athletes praised the infrastructure, organisation and hospitality provided by KIIT University.
