In a move that lends credibility to recent speculations, Ekaterina Antropova’s path to the Italian national team for the EuroVolley competition has become clear. The Italian media has confirmed that the protracted citizenship issues have been conclusively resolved, making it likely for Antropova to represent Italy in the European Championships in Rome.
The Council of Ministers, under the proposal of the Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi, has awarded Italian citizenship to Antropova, who was born in Akureyri, Iceland, on March 19, 2003. This decision is in line with article 9, paragraph 2, of the law of February 5, 1992, n. 91, rewarding special merits.
The proposal to activate the citizenship procedure was tabled by the President of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI). They highlighted Antropova’s remarkable achievements in volleyball since her registration with the Italian Volleyball Federation in 2018, when she moved to Italy as a minor under a guardianship permit.
The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) had initially sided with Russia, claiming to have registered Antropova first, which made her a foreign player in Italy. However, a subsequent ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne swayed the decision in Antropova’s favor. The Italian national team’s head coach has since considered Antropova for team selection.
If things proceed as they currently stand, Antropova is set to pair up with Paola Egonu as a strong force on the Italian team. Much like the impact of Karakurt and Vargas for Turkey, Antropova’s inclusion as an outside hitter could significantly enhance Italy’s lineup and performance in the EuroVolley tournament.
