History made as Brasília unveils first-ever VNL Legacy Court

New community court brings together volleyball, art and grassroots development as part of a global initiative led by the FIVB, Volleyball World and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation

As the VNL departs Brasília after two unforgettable weeks of world-class volleyball, its legacy in the Brazilian capital is only just beginning.

Brasília has become the first host city in the new VNL Legacy Court programme, an initiative from the FIVB, Volleyball World and the FIVB Volleyball Foundation that transforms public spaces into vibrant community hubs where volleyball can continue to connect and inspire people.

Located in Parque da Cidade Sarah Kubitschek, the city’s most iconic public park, the newly unveiled court features striking artwork by local artist Gelin Graff. The design celebrates Brazilian volleyball through portraits of national team stars Gabriela “Gabi” Guimarães, Ricardo Lucarelli, Rosamaria Montibeller, Darlan Souza, Maique Nascimento and Brasília native Júlia Kudiess, while reflecting the unique identity and energy of the city itself.

The court was officially inaugurated on Friday by FIVB Volleyball Foundation Executive Director Victoria Nussbaumer.

“Beyond this week, the court will be used for grassroots programmes – which means children who watched the world’s best players this week and last, will have a place to pick up a ball and begin their own story,” she said. “A few may go on to wear the national jersey. Many more will find friendship, skills and confidence. We measure our success by both.”

The court will be used by the Viva Vôlei grassroots programme and will remain open to the public, giving local children, families and volleyball fans a new space to play, train and connect through the sport.

The inauguration brought together leaders from the FIVB, Volleyball World, the FIVB Volleyball Foundation and the CBV, alongside volleyball star Senator Leila Barros and Brazilian stars Lucarelli, Darlan and Maique, as well as volleyball legend Mireya Luis. Viva Vôlei participants joined the celebrations on court, sharing the space with some of the athletes who inspired its creation.

“Twenty-three years ago, it was me playing in a court like this,” Lucarelli said. “I’m really honoured to have my face drawn into this space. To be an example and make people believe that they can achieve their dreams is really special.”

“It feels great to be able to support a project like this,” Maique added. “We need to take this idea to the entire world. Sports save lives and form great people, so the goal behind this programme is amazing. It’s always nice to be in touch with the kids, and I’m sure this is a special day for everyone here.”

As the first VNL Legacy Court to be unveiled, Brasília marks the beginning of a growing global network of community courts that will expand to Türkiye and the Philippines later this year. More than a legacy of a single event, the initiative reflects the FIVB Volleyball Foundation’s commitment to serving the world through volleyball – creating opportunities, strengthening communities and ensuring the sport remains accessible to everyone, everywhere.