Cuba are set to compete at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship for the 17th time in 2025, continuing a remarkable run of 16 consecutive appearances since 1966. One of the sport’s most historically consistent teams, Cuba have finished on the podium four times and reached the semifinals on five occasions, but the top step has remained just out of reach.
Their best finishes came in 1990 and 2010, when they claimed silver, while bronze medals in 1978 and 1998 further marked their place among men’s volleyball’s top teams. They also placed fourth in 1994, underlining their ability to compete against the strongest teams of different generations. Yet despite this record, the world title has continued to elude them – a goal that has driven every new Cuban team over the past five decades.
Their most recent World Championship finish was 14th in 2022. This time, Cuba arrive with a stronger foundation and renewed passion. Recent results have underlined their progress. In the 2025 Volleyball Nations League, they delivered statement wins over Brazil and Poland – two former world champions and perennial contenders – demonstrating they have grown tactically and mentally, and capable of challenging the best on the biggest stage.
Behind this rise is the support of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Between 2023 and 2025, Cuba received coaching support of $35,000 to reinforce their technical capacity. This has helped improve training systems, enhance player integration, and provide stability in a team that already has one of the most athletic rosters in the world.
Middle blocker Robertlandy Simon will be one of Cuba’s key players at the World Championship
At the heart of this squad is a composition of seasoned leaders and explosive talent. Much of the attention will be on Robertlandy Simon, widely regarded as one of the finest middle blockers of his generation. At 37, his return offers experience and a presence that anchors both the attack and the block. Around him, outside hitter and captain Miguel Angel Lopez brings relentless scoring power, while Marlon Yant and Osniel Melgarejo provide balance and depth in attack.
Cuba’s legacy remains strong. They have won the NORCECA Championship 16 times and claimed five Pan American Games gold medals, confirming their dominance in the region. They also captured the 2022 Challenger Cup, which secured their place back in the VNL. These achievements reflect a consistent pipeline of talent – a tradition that continues today as Cuban players make their mark in Europe’s top leagues before returning to strengthen the national programme.
Cuba will compete in Pool D, opening against Portugal on 13 September, followed by Colombia on 15 September and the United States on 17 September at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
For a nation with a proud volleyball identity, the World Championship offers Cuba a chance to pursue the one title that has long eluded them and to restore Cuban volleyball to the place it believes it belongs: among the world’s best.