Paris, France – After a 22-year wait, Paris Volley are once again champions of France, lifting the Coupe de France trophy on Saturday, March 28, 2026. The victory, secured in a thrilling four-set match (30-28, 25-23, 24-26, 26-24) against Nice at the Adidas Arena – typically home to Paris Basketball – was celebrated by a packed house of 8,000 volleyball fans.
The win marks a significant resurgence for the Parisian club, which has faced considerable challenges in recent years, including a relegation to Ligue B in 2018. The club was on the brink of collapse due to financial difficulties before a group of investors, including Olympic champions Antoine Brizard and Stéphane Antiga, stepped in to save it. This Coupe de France title is their fifth adding to previous triumphs in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2004.
The match against Nice was a tense affair, with all sets closely contested. Nice, finalists in 2023, pushed Paris to the limit, even managing to grab the third set thanks to a strong performance from Shay Liberman, who finished with 26 points, achieving an impressive 75% attack success rate and two aces. However, Paris ultimately prevailed, sealed by an ace from Vasiliy Molotkov, his 33rd point of the night.
Molotkov’s performance was pivotal, finishing with 51% in attack, four aces, and one block. Vuk Kulpinac also contributed significantly with 23 points (64% in attack, one ace, and one block), while François Huetz added six crucial blocks. Paris’s success was also built on a slight edge in blocking (13 to 8) and serving (9 aces to 6), demonstrating resilience in key moments.
“It’s magic for the club,” said Paris Volley coach Mauricio Motta Paes, reflecting on the significance of the victory. “You can see by the score how tight this match was, it came down to the smallest details. I’ve been here for 45 days, and we’ve gradually built confidence and a relationship. We’ve fostered a spirit of mutual support, which was key to today’s victory.” Paes, who previously led the club to four French championship titles between 2006 and 2009, emphasized the rapid impact he aimed to make.
“In 45 days, you don’t learn to play volleyball, you try to touch the strings that work quickly. This victory will give the team confidence for the future,” he added.
The celebrations were short-lived, however, as Paris Volley faces a crucial play-in match against Plessis-Robinson on Tuesday, seeking to secure their place in the league playoffs. They lost the first leg of the play-in 1-3 at home. The team will receive a boost with the addition of French international Mathis Henno as a medical joker for the return match.
The Coupe de France finals weren’t solely a celebration for the men’s team. Earlier on Saturday, Mulhouse’s women’s team successfully defended their title, defeating Vandoeuvre-Nancy 3-1 (25-20, 25-22, 25-27, 25-15). Led by coach André Sa, who previously coached Nancy for three years, Mulhouse dominated the match, though Vandoeuvre-Nancy provided a strong challenge, even claiming a fourth set after saving two match points.
The victory for Paris Volley represents more than just a trophy; it’s a testament to the club’s resilience and a symbol of renewed hope for the future. After years of struggle, the Parisian side has once again established itself as a force in French volleyball. The team’s next challenge comes quickly, with the play-in match against Plessis-Robinson looming large, offering a direct path to playoff contention.
Key Takeaways:
- Paris Volley ended a 22-year title drought, winning the Coupe de France against Nice in four sets.
- Vasiliy Molotkov’s performance, including a match-sealing ace, was crucial for Paris.
- The victory marks a significant turnaround for the club, which faced financial difficulties and relegation in recent years.
- Mulhouse’s women’s team also secured a title, successfully defending their Coupe de France championship.
- Paris Volley now prepares for a crucial play-in match against Plessis-Robinson to qualify for the playoffs.
Fans can follow Paris Volley’s progress and find official updates on their website and social media channels. The play-in match against Plessis-Robinson is scheduled for Tuesday, and the outcome will determine their playoff fate. What are your thoughts on Paris Volley’s incredible comeback? Share your opinions in the comments below!
