Manama: The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) inaugurated its biannual Congress today, Wednesday, in the Bahraini capital, Manama. The event runs until Sunday, 18 May, and gathers over 500 prominent figures, including top basketball officials and representatives from national federations across 180 countries worldwide.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the global event commenced with FIBA's Central Board meeting, a closed-door session that took place over Wednesday and Thursday. The coming days will feature specialized sessions for technical and administrative committees, coordination meetings among continental federations, and the main general assembly at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre in Sakhir. Additionally, the program includes side events, such as the FIBA Hall of Fame 2025 Ceremony at the Bahrain National Theatre.
Fatima bint Jaafar Al-Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, emphasized that hosting this global event aligns with Bahrain's Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, which highlights sports tourism as a key pillar. She noted that such events serve as effective platforms to showcase Bahrain's tourism, cultural, and economic offerings.
Faris Al-Kooheji, Secretary-General of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, stated that hosting the Congress strengthens Bahrain's position on the global sports map and opens new avenues for collaboration with FIBA. He highlighted Bahrain's facilities, infrastructure, and logistical services as ideal for hosting such high-profile meetings. He added that the Bahrain Basketball Association has spent months preparing a comprehensive organizational plan to meet FIBA's hosting requirements.
Sebastian Miazza, FIBA's Projects Director, noted the record participation of member federations and expressed FIBA's appreciation for Bahrain as the first Middle Eastern country to host the event. He stated that FIBA considers Bahrain a priority for future events, given its professional standards and government support for sports.
The Congress's side meetings hold particular importance, offering participants opportunities to exchange expertise, discuss best practices in basketball management and development, and foster dialogue to advance the sport.