Dominant fourth set settles a rematch of Paris 2024
The final at the Unipol Forum in Assago, before well over 11,000 fans, opened with a tense first set that Poland edged 31-29. They took the second 25-19 behind Bartłomiej Bołądź, who finished with 16 points.
France, the reigning back-to-back Olympic champions, answered by winning the third set 25-20. Mathis Henno led all scorers with 20 points, narrowing the gap in a final that echoed the Paris 2024 gold-medal contest.
Poland then closed the match with conviction. The fourth set ended 25-16.
Third European title, and a place at LA 2028
The win gave Poland their third continental championship, after 2009 and 2023, and a fourth straight EuroVolley podium. It also secured direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Leon, aged 33, was named tournament MVP and selected to the Dream Team. Coach Nikola Grbić was voted best coach of the championship.
"There's no other way to feel after the win of a European Championship," captain Bartosz Śliwka said afterwards. "We feel great; I feel proud as the captain of the team."
Poland finished the tournament with a 7-1 record, their only loss to co-hosts Bulgaria in pool play. France now must qualify for LA 2028 through the 2027 World Cup or the world ranking.
