Mireya Luis, triple Olympic volleyball champion, receives Dominican nationality

January 21, 2022

The legendary volleyball player Mireya Luis Hernández, who was a vital part of Cuba's teams that won gold medals in three consecutive Olympic Games, has received privileged Dominican nationality in recognition of her sporting merits recognized worldwide and at the continental level.

Luis Hernández, who is currently vice president of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) as well as the NORCECA Confederation, received the certification issued by the Ministry of Interior and Police.

In granting privileged nationality, the President of the Republic, Luis Abinader, took into consideration the fact that the gold medalist in Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000 has been a source of inspiration to volleyball players around the world and particularly in the Dominican Republic.

Mireya has been considered a role model for her elevated moral and civic qualities alongside her sporting accolades.

"I feel very honored by this distinction that is being granted to me and which I accept with satisfaction and pride," said Luis Hernández. "I hope not to disappoint all the people who have contributed to it, especially President Abinader for his generosity."

In addition to her Olympic medals, Mireya was part of the Cuban teams that won the World Championships of 1994 and 1998, the World Cups of 1989, 1991 and 1995 and the World Grand Prix of 1993 and 2000.

She has been a member of the International Olympic Committee's Athletes' Commission as well as the Olympic Solidarity Commission.