GB-Belarus FIBA World Cup Qualifiers officially postponed

Image Credit: FIBA

FIBA has announced that both Great Britain – Belarus home and away match-ups for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 European Qualifiers, have been postponed.

“The decision is based on the evaluation of the current security situation,” the world governing body said in a statement.

“FIBA is closely monitoring the security situation in Europe, as players’ and officials’ safety remain FIBA’s primary concern.”

The British Basketball Federation, in consultation with players and stuff, made the decision not to travel to Minsk earlier this week for the away leg that was scheduled today – prior to the game officially being postponed – facing a potential forfeit should FIBA have deemed it playable, but no official forfeits will be registered with both fixtures now being postponed.

The home leg was due to be played on Monday in Newcastle.

Interim BBF Chair Toni Minichiello said:

“We thank FIBA for all their help and for understanding our concerns about travelling to Minsk. I would also wish to take the opportunity thank the BBF Board, GB Team Staff and Players for coming together and presenting a unified position. The safety of our players and staff are and will always be our primary focus.”

The GB Senior Men remain in training camp in Newcastle this week with an opportunity for extra preparation and team-building time.

Dates for both updated fixtures are yet to be confirmed.

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