GB OPT OUT OF YOUTH EUROS - Hoopsfix.com

GB OPT OUT OF YOUTH EUROS

Great Britain will not take part in this summer’s European youth championships.

The British Basketball Federation’s decision, taken due to COVID-19 considerations, comes two days after FIBA announced it would allow individual countries to opt out of 2021’s events which will see smaller tournaments and promotion and relegation suspended.

In a statement, the BBF said: “It has been agreed the GB Youth Teams (male and female at U16, U18 and U20) will not take part in the Challenger events because of the ongoing COVID-19 situation in the UK and across Europe and the risks involved to players and staff and their families.

The decision has been based on:

  • Athlete and staff welfare being paramount
  • The ongoing medical challenges associated with COVID-19 and the pandemic
  • Government advice and restrictions on travel
  • Logistical and financial challenges surrounding preparation and competition.”

BBF chair Toni Minichiello said: “It is a disappointing and difficult situation, but we have to put the health and safety of our young players, their coaches and support staff, and their families first and, along with our Home Country members, feel the risks associated with large groups travelling to locations across the continent are too high.”