Indian Men's Basketball Team Stranded In Doha; FIBA Postpones Qualifier Amid Regional Tensions

Last Updated:March 03, 2026, 21:58 IST

With airspace restrictions affecting outbound flights, the Indian contingent has been unable to commence its return journey and remains temporarily grounded in Doha.

India’s men’s basketball team has been left stranded in Doha after escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia disrupted international airspace and flight operations, officials confirmed Tuesday.

The squad had travelled to Qatar for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, where they suffered a Group D defeat to Qatar on Friday. They were scheduled to depart the next day for Lebanon to face the hosts at the Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex in Zouk Mikael.

However, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), headquartered in Mies, Switzerland, announced that four qualifying matches in Groups C and D — including Lebanon vs India — would be postponed to the next qualification window in late June.

The decision followed U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on major Iranian cities, including Tehran, which heightened security concerns across the region.

As a precaution, FIBA deferred the fixtures to prioritise the safety of players, officials and staff. The affected games include Iran vs Syria, Iraq vs Jordan, Lebanon vs India and Qatar vs Saudi Arabia.

With airspace restrictions affecting outbound flights, the Indian contingent has been unable to commence its return journey and remains temporarily grounded in Doha.

Authorities Step In as Team Awaits Clearance

The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) confirmed it is coordinating with the Ministries of External Affairs, Home Affairs and Youth Affairs & Sports, along with the Embassy of India in Doha.

“The safety and welfare of the Indian contingent remain the highest priority for the Basketball Federation of India. We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in regular communication with the team management, relevant authorities, and international basketball bodies," the BFI said in a statement.

Local organisers have arranged hotel accommodation and logistical support, while community groups such as Karnataka Sangha Qatar have stepped in to assist.

India currently sit bottom of Group D with three points from three matches, trailing Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Lebanon, who each have five.

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