Emanuele Zanini is leaving his position as head coach of Belgium’s men’s national volleyball team after five years, during which he guided the Red Dragons back towards the world’s elite.
Belgium confirmed that the Italian coach’s contract will not be renewed, bringing an end to a period marked by significant progress and strong international performances.
Since taking charge in 2022, when Belgium ranked 28th in the FIVB World Rankings, Zanini has overseen the team’s rise to 15th place. Under his leadership, the Red Dragons narrowly missed Olympic qualification in 2023, finished seventh at the 2025 World Championship and made their Volleyball Nations League debut in 2026, securing qualification for the 2027 edition.
Zanini also guided Belgium to sixth place at the most recent European Championship.
The Belgian federation praised the experienced Italian for raising professional standards, strengthening the team’s identity and establishing foundations for future success.
Zanini reflected proudly on his tenure, thanking the players, staff and federation for their support while wishing the Red Dragons continued success.
Belgium will soon begin the search for a new head coach to lead the team into its next chapter.
