The 2018 Beach Major Series will feature modified pool play rounds for the first time, with a heavy emphasis on rankings.
Each of the four teams in a group will play just two matches, instead of the usual three. The format is not new to the FIVB as it was utilized during the World Tour last year, but not at the four Beach Major events.
The top seeded team plays the lowest seeded pair in the group, while the second and third teams also meet in the first round. The winners play for the pool crown and a free pass to the second knockout round, while the losers play a win or go home match. The two remaining teams with a loss face off in the first elimination round.
The Beach Major Series kicks off in Fort Lauderdale, Feb. 26 to March 4. Fifty-six teams will vie for the medals on both the men’s and women’s sides.
Among the teams in the field are returning gold medalists Alvaro Filho/Saymon Barbosa and silver medalists Evandro/Andre Loyola from Brazil and American bronze medalists Phil Dalhausser and Nick Lucena.
On the women’s side, defending gold medalists Larissa/Talita of Brazil are out due to Talita’s pregnancy. Silver medalists Agatha and Duda will carry the torch for Brazil, while German bronze medalists Chantal Laboureur and Julia Sude also are back.
For more on the Beach Major Series and a look at the thoughts of some of the top teams, check out the following Q&As.
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