Brazilian volleyball legend Leila Barros will return to the Philippines as a special guest for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
Barros, who once captured the hearts of Filipino fans in Manila, will make her long-awaited return to the country.
She is scheduled to attend the semifinals and final of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on September 27–28 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, following a personal invitation from Asian Volleyball Confederation and Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
“Through the invitation of AVC and PNVF President Ramon Suzara, we are thrilled to announce that volleyball superstar Leila Barros will be attending the final of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship,” the PNVF announced on Friday.
“She’s an icon who once captured the hearts of Filipino fans — and now, she’s returning for the biggest volleyball event in our nation’s history.”
Leila Barros was a big star here in the Philippines when the country hosted an FIVB tournament (FIVB Images)
The 53-year-old Barros helped ignite Filipinos’ love for volleyball, winning fans over with her skill and charisma during the 2000 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix as a member of Brazil’s national team.
Brazil ultimately secured the bronze medal after defeating China in four sets, with Barros earning a spot on the Dream Team as the Best Opposite Spiker.
Her popularity in the Philippines extended beyond the court, making her one of the first international volleyball stars to gain a massive local following — an impressive feat in an era before social media.
Barros’ influence from that tournament continues to resonate, inspiring a generation of Filipino volleyball players who have helped shape the country’s thriving volleyball scene today.
Tickets for the event are available through the official website: https://www.philippineswch2025.com/
