Türkiye Rally Past Italy to Retain European Volleyball Title

Türkiye turned a two-set deficit into a five-set triumph over Italy, retaining its European women’s volleyball title in a dramatic final before a packed crowd in Istanbul.

Daniele Santarelli’s team won 3-2 at Sinan Erdem Sports Hall on Sunday to claim Türkiye’s second consecutive European crown and its second title overall. The victory also secured a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Türkiye finished second in Group A behind Poland, recording four wins and one loss. It then moved through the knockout stage without dropping a set against Azerbaijan, defeated Germany 3-1 in the quarterfinals and swept Serbia 3-0 in the semifinals.

The title strengthened Türkiye’s standing among international women’s volleyball powers. The team had won its first European Championship in 2023. It also reached the finals in 2003 and 2019, taking silver on both occasions, and won bronze in 2011, 2017 and 2021.

Melissa Vargas led Türkiye’s individual honors, winning the Most Valuable Player award and being named the best opposite hitter. Derya Cebecioğlu was selected among the best outside hitters, Zehra Güneş among the best middle blockers, and Gizem Örge as the best libero. Elif Şahin was recognized for her work as setter, while Santarelli received the best coach award.