FOOTBALL has long been the heartbeat of Argentina’s sporting culture.
From Diego Maradona’s immortal “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” to Lionel Messi’s record haul of Ballon d’Ors and Golden Shoes, the sport has become synonymous with the nation’s identity.
On the global stage of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, Pablo Kukartsev and his teammates are determined to carve out their own legacy in Argentine volleyball.
“For us, it’s an honor to represent Argentina in this kind of tournament,” Kukartsev said, reflecting on the challenge of representing a football-crazy nation in a sport still striving to emerge from football’s shadow.
The 32-year-old opposite hitter, who has played for the national team since 2013, understands the weight of carrying a country’s hopes in a sport where most dreams are born on football pitches.
“We know how important this championship is, and we will try to elevate our country to the highest possible position,” he said.
As Argentina battles through the tournament, Kukartsev and his teammates carry more than just their own ambitions.
They are playing for the small but growing community of volleyball fans back home, for the families who cheer them on, and for the chance to prove that Argentina’s sporting spirit is not confined to just one game.
“We will fight in every game and every match for all the people supporting us—family and friends alike—and we’re going to give our best for our country and for all of them,” he emphasized.
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