FIBA confirm GB vs Belarus World Cup 2023 Qualifiers are postponed

FIBA have confirmed the postponement of Monday’s World Cup Qualifier between Great Britain and Belarus in Newcastle.

It follows the decision to reschedule Friday’s fixture between the two nations in Minsk because of the situation in neighbouring Ukraine.

The Belarusians were due to fly to the UK on Saturday for the second game of the window between the countries at the Vertu Motors Arena.

GB had been due to make the trip to Belarus earlier in the week but tensions in region saw the British Basketball Federation board make the decision not to send the team after consulting with players and staff.

The #FIBAWC Qualifying game between Belarus and Great Britain scheduled to be played in Minsk on Friday 25 February has been postponed.

The decision is based on the evaluation of the current security situation in the region. https://t.co/CgZq4Rp8dW

— FIBA Basketball World Cup (@FIBAWC) February 24, 2022

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.”

FIBA confirmed on Thursday that Friday’s away game would be rescheduled and today (Friday) announced the Monday night clash in the North East will also be moved to a later date.

Dates for both fixtures are yet to be confirmed.