By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
“Leila Mania” is coming back.
Former Brazilian volleyball star Leila Barros is set to return to the Philippines after being invited as guest of honor in the finals of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship that the country is hosting next month.
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) made the announcement on social media on Friday, Aug. 23, saying that the volleyball star-turned-senator accepted the invitation of Asian Volleyball Confederation chief and PNVF President Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
“She once captured the hearts of thousands of fans, and now she returns for the biggest stage of all,” the post read.
“We are honored and excited to welcome Leila Barros back to the Philippines for the FINALS at the SM Mall of Asia Arena!” it added.
Barros became the darling of the crowd when she and the Brazilian team competed in the 2000 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix that the country hosted at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
They eventually won the bronze medal during the nine-day tournament, with Barros’ charm also capturing the hearts of Filipino volleyball fans.
The tournament fires off on Sept. 12, with the finals set on Sept. 28.
