FIBA Prepares Potential Olympic Pathway for Russian and Belarusian Basketball teams
Geneva, Switzerland – December 6, 2023 – Despite maintaining a ban on Russian and Belarusian national teams from FIBA-controlled competitions, the international basketball federation signaled Friday it is preparing a potential route for their participation in the 2028 Los angeles Olympics. This move comes even as customary qualifying pathways through the World Championship are already underway.
The FIBA Central Board announced its willingness to implement “exceptional measures” allowing the federations of both countries to compete in LA28, should the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decide to readmit Russian and Belarusian athletes to the broader Olympic movement. The current ban, initially imposed following the invasion of Ukraine, is scheduled to remain in effect at least until February 2026, coinciding with the next IOC meeting.
While qualification for the Olympics typically runs through the FIBA Basketball World Cup, the organization acknowledges this avenue is currently closed. However, FIBA is proactively considering alternative methods to facilitate participation should the IOC reverse its stance. This suggests a potential separate qualifying tournament or direct invitation system could be established.
Separately, FIBA confirmed it will not follow the EuroLeague’s lead in resuming international competitions in Israel, stating it continues to monitor the situation and will be prepared to make a decision accordingly.
