FIVB fixed the 2014 WCH formula and regulations for the qualifications to the 2016 Olympic Games

FIVB fixed the 2014 WCH formula and regulations for the qualifications to the 2016 Olympic Games. The formula fixed applies to the 2014 World Championships of Men (in Poland) and Women (in Italy). 24 teams participating in the event will be divided into the four groups with six teams each one.

The formula fixed applies to the 2014 World Championships of Men (in Poland) and Women (in Italy). 24 teams participating in the event will be divided into the four groups with six teams each one. Only four teams out of each group will promote to the quarterfinals. In the next round 16 teams will be divided into two groups with eight teams each one. Only four teams will promote to the quarterfinals from each of the groups.    

Only the host team has granted participation in the World Championships. In the past, the same privilege applied to the defendant of the title. However, now, such a team must also fight for qualification to the event.

At the meeting the number of places for particular continents has also been specified.
World Championships of Men/Women:

Europe – 9/10 (including the host team)
North and Central America – 5/6
South America – 3/2
Asia – 4/4
Africa – 3/2

At the 2016 Olympic Games, in Rio de Janeiro, at men’s and women’s volleyball tournaments 12 teams will play in each of the divisions. The host team is already granted participation in the event.
The remaining teams must fight for qualifications to the Olympic Games. Below is the division of places at the Olympic tournament in Rio de Janeiro:

1 – host team (Brazil)
5 – championships of the continents or winners of the continental tournaments
2 – teams from the 2015 World Cup
4 – winners of the world tournaments, with four teams playing in each