The Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) has officially resumed the Men’s Nations Cup Final after a brief postponement due to rising regional tensions. The final, originally scheduled for 7 p.m. (Bahrain time) on June 24, 2025, was delayed following escalated tensions due to a recent U.S. military action in the Middle East.

Postponement Due to Regional Tensions

The U.S. bombed nuclear facilities in Iran, and with Bahrain’s proximity to Al Udeid, a U.S. airbase in Qatar, concerns arose over the safety of participants in the 11-nation competition. The threat of further military escalation led to the AVC’s decision to postpone the match between the host country Bahrain and Pakistan as a precautionary measure.

A statement from the AVC Control Committee confirmed the postponement: “Due to the current situation, AVC President Mr. Ramon Suzara has decided to postpone all matches scheduled for June 24, 2025, until further notice and until the situation returns to status quo.”

Safety Guarantees and Resumption of Play

Despite the situation, the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Bahrain Volleyball Association assured the AVC of the safety of all participants. These assurances prompted Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the AVC, to reverse the decision and resume play.

“Following consultations with the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Bahrain Volleyball Association, the AVC has decided to proceed with the Finals today as scheduled,” said the AVC in a statement.

Final and Other Matches Continue

The match between Bahrain and Pakistan will go ahead on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, after being rescheduled. The Men’s Nations Cup Final will now take place in the evening, and Alas Pilipinas—who were ready to fly home when the postponement was announced—are set to play New Zealand in their scheduled match at 5 p.m. (Bahrain time).

The AVC’s decision to resume the final was crucial in ensuring that the Men’s Nations Cup proceeded as planned, despite the earlier disruptions. With safety assurances in place, the competition’s closure was back on track, allowing the athletes to finish their tournament without further delay.