2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship
- 9–30 September
- Schedule
- Teams
- Power Rankings
Brazil’s offensive ace Ricardo Lucarelli suffered a torn Achilles injury in November of 2017. Since then, it has been a slowly road to recovery. He was cleared to play about two months ago, but even though he was called-up for Brazil’s current WCH roster, his team lobbied hard for him to be released from his duties so he could focus on his recovery 100%.
Taubaté’s decision to not let Lucarelli participate at the WCH really left Brazil in a tight spot, as the team’s other starting outside hitter, Mauricio Borges, is also out with an injury, forcing the team to participate in the tournament with two bench players on starting roles. He recently spoke to Globo.com about his decision:
“I am happy, as I have been getting more minutes on the court with Taubaté, having good performances and helping the team at the end of games. I am not saying I am at 100%, but am sure closer to it than to 0%. As for the national team, I think that me not going to the WCH was a question of ethical behavior. I did not consider it fair to be there and not be at my best, I believe I could not help the team that much, so it was more of a personal choice for me. I talked a lot with a lot of people, because I did not think it was the right time, I did not feel apt to be there. Now, I’m wishing all luck to the team.”
Lucarelli is an Olympic gold medalist and a Grand Champions Cup MVP. Without his offensive power, Brazil, which is the current runner ups to the WCH crown, will probably be relegated to long-shot contenders at this year’s edition of the tournament.
Lucarelli Ruled Out Of WCH Even Though He Is Back Playing For Taubaté
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