Brazil volleyball tournament starts with international stars across 11 clubs
The Superliga Feminina 2026/27 officially begins this Saturday in Brazil, bringing together a significant international contingent for the new season. A total of 25 foreign players are distributed across 11 of the 12 competing clubs, raising the technical level of the national championship.
The opening match takes place in Belo Horizonte, where last season runner-up Gerdau Minas hosts Brusque at 18h30. Up to six players from abroad could make an appearance on the court during this initial clash, setting the tone for a highly competitive tournament.
Defending champions Dentil Praia Clube also begin their campaign with international reinforcements, featuring two talented wing spikers from outside Brazil, according to information published by VOLLEYBALL.
Clubs Leading the Foreign Player Count
Several traditional teams have invested heavily in international talent for the Superliga Feminina 2026/27 season. Gerdau Minas, Osasco, Sesi Bauru, and Brusque currently lead the league with three foreign athletes each.
In Belo Horizonte, Gerdau Minas relies on Polish setter Julia Nowicka, Canadian outside hitter Hilary Johnson, and Dominican player Flormarie Heredia. Meanwhile, Osasco assembled a powerhouse trio featuring Italian setter Marta Bechis, Italian outside hitter Anastasia Guerra, and Polish opposite Magdalena Stysiak.
International Stars Across Brazilian Teams
The international presence extends deeply throughout the league standings, with multiple clubs securing key global talent. Sesi Bauru enters the competition with American Morgahn Fingall, Venezuelan Roslandy Acosta, and Mexican Sofia Maldonado bolstering their roster.
At Sesc RJ Flamengo, fans will watch American outside hitter Simone Lee and Serbian middle blocker Minja Osmajic. Minja was recently added to the official squad list while recovering from a finger injury, replacing Masa Kirov from the initial preseason announcements.
Complete Foreign Roster Breakdown by Club
Other traditional participants like Batavo Mackenzie, Brasília, Praia Clube, Pinheiros, Sancor Londrina, and Sesc RJ Flamengo feature two foreign players each in their respective squads. The Fluminense squad includes one international athlete, while Paulistano Barueri remains the only team without foreign players.
Interestingly, Fluminense player Júlia de Paula was born in Brazil but plays for the Spanish national team. Because of her nationality and sporting representation, she is not counted among the 25 athletes born outside Brazil in this official roster survey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many foreign players are in the Superliga Feminina 2026/27?
A total of 25 foreign players are competing in the Superliga Feminina 2026/27, spread across 11 of the 12 participating clubs.
Which clubs have the most foreign players?
Gerdau Minas, Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde, Sesi Bauru, and Brusque lead the league with three foreign players each on their rosters.
When does the Superliga Feminina 2026/27 season start?
The tournament officially begins on Saturday, October 17, with an opening match between Gerdau Minas and Brusque in Belo Horizonte.
Which defending champion starts the season with international players?
Dentil Praia Clube begins its title defense in the Superliga Feminina with two wing spikers hailing from outside Brazil.
