By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The 2023 FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers Group H Gameday 5 contest between Italy and Russia will not be held according to the initial schedule, Italian Basketball Federation president Gianni Petrucci made it clear Friday.
Petrucci, 77, detailing the situation resurfaced his concern regarding FIBA opting to rule out Russian teams from all competitions until further notice, instead of demonstrating a clearer stance following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing war in Eastern Europe.
“International basketball holds for a stance that will make history, waiting for May to take further action against Russia. I am really disappointed and I did not think it would go that far,” explained the FIP president, “There is a war going on, what else needs to happen? Did they consider the potential matchup between Russia and Ukraine in the second round of the Qualifiers? I don’t see what could change between now and May. It is clear that athletes have no responsibility in this regard.”
Similar to the Netherlands refusing to host Russia on Gameday 4, Italy will not move forward with the upcoming fixture of the summer international window. Fellow Group H team, Iceland intends to skip its own home game against Russia as well, as noted by the Italian Basketball Federation.
Russia is scheduled to visit Italy and Iceland in July, while the away game opposite the Netherlands remains suspended. Capturing wins in the three games at home has lifted Russia to the top of the standings with Italy and Iceland knotted at 2-2, and the Netherlands down in fourth place and 0-3. The top three national teams will advance and in the second round pair up with the three top national teams of Group G, featuring Ukraine alongside Georgia, Spain, and North Macedonia.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL