Volleyball World Names Ugo Valensi as Chief Executive Officer

Volleyball World has named former Grand Slam Tennis CEO Ugo Valensi as its new chief executive officer starting August 4 as Volleyball World builds on the momentum provided by the sport’s exposure at last year’s Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

Valensi managed the partnership between the Grand Slams, overseeing strategic collaboration across the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, Wimbledon and U.S. Open. Prior to Grand Slam Tennis, Valensi led the Sportfive agency.

“I’m honoured to join Volleyball World at such an exciting moment in its journey,” Valensi said. “Since its launch in 2021, the organisation has redefined what’s possible for professional volleyball — blending sporting excellence with global entertainment appeal.”

Valensi will start after the Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Nations League Finals and shortly before the Women’s Volleyball World Championship in Thailand (August 22—September 7) and Men’s Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines (September 12±28) – the first time both championships have been held in Asia. The Beach Volleyball World Championships will take place in Adelaide, Australia, in November.

“We are very lucky to have secured Ugo as our new CEO,” said Volleyball World Chair Michael Payne. “He brings a wealth of expertise in the sports business, from both the rights holder and agency side. Through his time at Grand Slam Tennis and as CEO of Sportfive, he has shown his undoubted commercial acumen. Having listened to him outline his vision for Volleyball World, I look forward to working with him at this exciting time for the organization and the sport of volleyball.”