The Deaf International Basketball Federation (DIBF) continues to be appalled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the devastating war that is ongoing.

Following to the recommendations and letters set out by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and International Committee of the Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) in response to the involvement of Russia and Belarus in the invasion of Ukraine, the DIBF Central Board took place the meeting on last Sunday, 6 March 2022 and made the official statement.

The DIBF took those decisions to safeguard the integrity of competitions and the safety of all participants, as well as to ensure fairness for Deaf Ukrainian players, teams, clubs and officials who are currently unable to participate in DIBF events.

The Central Board members have decided to implement IOC’S, FIBA’s and ICSD`s decisions at DIBF competitions with immediate effect and as follows:

  • To not allow the participation of Russian and Belarusian teams in DIBF competitions until further notice
  • To not allow the participation of Russian and Belarusian officials, including delegates, supervisors, referees etc. in DIBF competitions until further notice

DIBF President Ioannis Stoufis said: “DIBF is monitoring the horrific situation in Ukraine, which is changing on a daily basis. The safety of our member Ukraine, as well as all Ukrainian players and other citizens, is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We condemn this act of aggression by Russia and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine in these most difficult and dangerous of times.”

DIBF Secretary General Jürgen Endress said: “As the global leader of Deaf Basketball, DIBF responsible continues to closely monitor the situation together with the IOC, FIBA and ICSD. It may adapt its decisions and measures according to future developments. DIBF regrets the consequences for individuals, clubs and national teams and hopes that all members of the Deaf Basketball family will be united again in peace very soon.”

All of the DIBF also extends its full solidarity to the people of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Deaf Sports Federation and their Deaf Basketball.