Basketball: FIBA suspends Brazil for failing to restructure, among others

World basketball governing body, FIBA has suspended its Brazilian affiliate, Brazilian Basketball Confederation for not “not fully complying with its obligations as a National Member Federation of FIBA under the applicable General Statutes.”

Stressing that the Brazilian body “still needs restructuring”, FIFA stated that the suspension which was published on its website was necessitated by Brazil’s failure, among other things, to have full control of basketball in the country.

For example, third parties have intervened in the selection and funding of national team activities,” it stated, adding that they also have “Outstanding payments towards FIBA for an extended period of time, despite several grace periods granted.”

It further averred that “The overall financial situation of CBB does not permit it to finance its operations or to be in good standing in its country.” Other areas which forced the suspension hammer on CBB, FIBA added, include non-participation in competitions, such as continental youth competitions and 3×3 Senior world championships, as well as failure to organise the 3×3 World Tour event in Rio de Janeiro.

“A high number of players has already been affected by these absences, since they have missed the opportunity to qualify and play internationally in the upcoming years,”it stated, adding that “At the national level, important national youth championships have been cancelled by CBB.”

FIBA also frowned at the “absence of a reform or restructuring plan (by the CBB) before (its) upcoming elections”, as it ordered it to present one before the elections.