- Gujarat becomes the first state to host the prestigious FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers, marking a watershed moment in Indian basketball
- Ahmedabad’s Veer Savarkar Indoor Stadium gears up for blockbuster India vs Qatar and India vs Lebanon clashes in July 2026
- Backed by world-class infrastructure and growing global sporting credentials, Gujarat strengthens its position as India’s emerging sports powerhouse
- Tournament blends elite international competition with youth inspiration, sports development and the ‘Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life’ campaign
NE SPORTS BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, JUNE 29
An electrifying chapter is about to unfold in Gujarat’s sporting journey.
For the first time in its history, the state will host the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers 2026, transforming Ahmedabad into the epicentre of international basketball and underlining Gujarat’s emergence as one of India’s fastest-growing global sporting destinations.
The prestigious qualifiers will be staged at the Veer Savarkar Indoor Stadium in Ahmedabad, where Indian basketball fans will witness two high-voltage clashes as Team India takes on Qatar on July 2, 2026 (6 pm) and Lebanon on July 5, 2026 (8.30 pm).
Coming close on the heels of the successful international volleyball championship hosted at the same venue, the tournament reflects Gujarat’s rapidly expanding reputation for delivering world-class sporting events backed by modern infrastructure, efficient administration and an unwavering commitment to sporting excellence.
Expressing pride over the landmark achievement, Shakti Singh Gohil, President of the Gujarat State Basketball Association, said hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers for the first time marks a defining milestone in Gujarat’s sporting history.
He credited the achievement to the unwavering support extended by the Government of Gujarat and the Sports Authority of Gujarat throughout the planning and execution process.
“Hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers for the first time is a historic milestone for Gujarat. This achievement has been made possible because of the unwavering support and encouragement of the Government of Gujarat and the Sports Authority of Gujarat. Their vision and commitment towards sports development have transformed Gujarat into one of India’s leading sporting destinations.”
Echoing the sentiment, Shafiq Sheikh said the back-to-back hosting of an international volleyball championship and now the FIBA qualifiers demonstrate Gujarat’s growing capability to organise premier global sporting events.
“This tournament is not just a celebration of basketball, but a celebration of Gujarat’s growing stature in the international sports arena.”
Welcoming participating nations, FIBA officials and fans from across the globe, he added that the association looks forward to creating unforgettable sporting memories.
Highlighting the tournament’s larger social purpose, Umesh Pathak, Vice President of the Gujarat State Basketball Association, said the championship would also amplify the association’s anti-drug awareness initiative.
“Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life” and “Drug-Free India.”
He emphasised that sport has the power to inspire discipline, healthy living and responsible citizenship among young people, while expressing gratitude to the Gujarat Police for its valuable support.
Focusing on Ahmedabad’s preparedness, Mukesh Amin, President of the Ahmedabad District Basketball Association, said the city is fully geared up to welcome FIBA officials and teams from Qatar and Lebanon.
“As India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Ahmedabad proudly represents a unique blend of rich culture, hospitality and modern sporting infrastructure. The city eagerly awaits thrilling basketball action and is rapidly emerging as India’s international sports hub by consistently hosting prestigious events.”
The Gujarat State Basketball Association, in coordination with the Basketball Federation of India, has put in place elaborate arrangements to ensure seamless operations, world-class hospitality and international standards throughout the tournament.
Officials said the championship represents a significant milestone in Gujarat’s sporting evolution and signals the state’s readiness to host more marquee global competitions.
They also revealed that basketball enthusiasts can look forward to an even bigger international basketball championship scheduled for August 2026, further strengthening Gujarat’s position on the world basketball map.
The association has extended an open invitation to sports lovers, students, families and basketball enthusiasts from across the country to experience the excitement of elite international basketball and cheer Team India on its road to the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
