Argentina is already in Mexico for a new participation at the Pan-American Cup
Twelve teams – eight from NORCECA and four from South America– are to play for six spots available to next year’s FIVB World Grand Prix. The top four teams from NORCECA and the top South America’s side other than Brazil, who are automatically qualified, get tickets to the 2013 FIVB competition.
Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and United States are grouped in Pool A while Pool B consists of Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru and Trinidad & Tobago. The matches will take place at Colegio de Bachilleres and Universidad Autónoma Gymnasiums.
Last year, Brazil claimed their third title in the history of the event by defeating Dominican Republic in straight sets (25-20, 25-22, 25-19). The bronze medal went to United States after a 25-21, 25-16, 25-13 victory over Cuba.
Cuba top the historical list of gold medal winners with four, followed by Brazil (3), Dominican Republic (2) and United States (1). The Dominicans, who have finished on the podium in every edition, lead in total medals with 10.
The top two teams at the conclusion of the preliminary round will qualify directly to the semifinals while teams placed second and third in their respective pools will meet in crossover matches in the quarterfinals on July 18. The semifinals and medal matches will take place on July 19 and 20.
