Montpellier complete clean sweep on home sand to qualify for European Cup Preliminary Phase

The WEVZA qualifier for the CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2026 Preliminary Phase came to an exciting conclusion on Sunday at Parc de la Rauze, following a day of top-level competition played in even hotter conditions than the day before. In front of nearly 300 spectators, some of the best teams from France, Belgium and Spain delivered thrilling semi-finals and finals during this event celebrating the 20th anniversary of Montpellier Beach Volley.

The day began with the semi-finals, confirming once again the outstanding level of competition at this WEVZA event. In the women’s tournament, Montpellier secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Belgium’s Beach Volley Support, while Beach Volley Europe defeated Spain’s Praia Vigo by the same scoreline to book their place in the final. In the men’s competition, Montpellier continued its flawless run by overcoming Barcelona 2-0 during the semi-final, while Maxorata reached the final after a fiercely contested game against NZA. Following several high-quality sets, Maxorata eventually prevailed in the Golden Set, winning an all-Mallorca derby that lived up to all expectations.

The women’s final proved to be one of the highlights. Facing Beach Volley Europe, the Montpellier duo had to dig deep before claiming a 2-1 victory after a spectacular Golden Set that delighted the home crowd. Earlier in the day, the bronze medal match had already produced an unforgettable scenario, with Spain’s Praia Vigo completing a remarkable comeback to secure third place, also after a dramatic Golden Set. 

The men’s final then allowed Montpellier to finish the weekend in style. Solid and composed throughout the match, the home team defeated Maxorata (ESP) 2-0, thus securing the title. Thanks to these two victories, Montpellier Beach Volley completed a double by winning both the women’s and men’s tournaments on home sand, securing their spot in the Preliminary Phase of the CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2026. 

The same feeling was shared by the players. “I am very proud of this team. The level of our opponents was really high, and the incredible atmosphere created by the crowd gave us the extra energy we needed to win,” said Elsa Descamps, player of Montpellier women’s team.

Present throughout the competition, Drago Peslac, CEV Supervisor, also praised the quality of the tournament: “I am delighted to be here. Every match has been very interesting, and the final stages were truly exciting. This is a fantastic tournament.” 

The medal ceremony brought the 2026 edition to a close, with medals awarded to the finalists and the French national anthem played twice in honour of Montpellier’s victories. Supported by around 40 volunteers, this weekend of competition once again confirmed the annual Montpellier Beach Masters as one of the leading Beach Volleyball events in Western Europe.