Gujarat Emerges as Sports Hub, Ahmedabad Set to Host Mega Sporting Extravaganza

BY: Webdunia News Team

Publish: Tue, 30 Jun 2026 (13:23 IST) Updated: Tue, 30 Jun 2026 (13:23 IST)

Ahmedabad is all set to host the prestigious FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers 2026, marking a major milestone for Gujarat's growing stature as an international sporting destination. The tournament will be held at the state-of-the-art Veer Savarkar Indoor Stadium with support from the Gujarat Government and the Sports Authority of Gujarat.

The international event is expected to strengthen Gujarat's position on the global sports map while showcasing its world-class sporting infrastructure.

Team India to Face Qatar and Lebanon

Basketball fans will witness Team India in action in two crucial qualification matches.

India will take on Qatar on July 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM, followed by a clash against Lebanon on July 5, 2026, at 8:30 PM.

After successfully hosting an international volleyball championship, Ahmedabad is now gearing up to stage another major global sporting event.

Gujarat Continues Its Rise as a Global Sports Hub

Gujarat State Basketball Association President Shaktisinh Gohil described hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers for the first time as a proud moment for the state.

He credited the Gujarat Government and the Sports Authority of Gujarat for their consistent support in developing sports infrastructure and promoting international tournaments. According to him, Gujarat is steadily emerging as one of India's leading destinations for major sporting events.

Association official Shafiq Shaikh said that hosting the FIBA qualifiers soon after an international volleyball championship demonstrates Gujarat's ability to successfully organise large-scale global sporting competitions. He also welcomed the participating teams, officials, and basketball fans to the state.

Tournament to Promote Social Awareness

Vice-President of the Gujarat State Basketball Association Umesh Pathak said the event is about more than just basketball, adding that it also aims to inspire positive social change.

The association is running awareness campaigns such as "Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life" and "Drug-Free India" to encourage healthy lifestyles among young people. He said sports play a vital role in promoting discipline, fitness, and responsible living, while thanking the Gujarat Police for supporting the initiative.

Ahmedabad Ready to Welcome International Delegations

Ahmedabad District Basketball Association (ABDA) President Mukesh Amin said the city, India's first UNESCO World Heritage City, is fully prepared to welcome teams and officials from Qatar, Lebanon, and FIBA.

He added that Ahmedabad's rich cultural heritage, renowned hospitality, and modern sports facilities will make the tournament a memorable experience for players and visitors alike.

World-Class Preparations Underway

The Gujarat State Basketball Association and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) have made comprehensive arrangements to provide world-class facilities for players, coaches, referees, officials, and international guests.

Technical teams, administrative staff, volunteers, and coaches at the Veer Savarkar Indoor Stadium are working to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the tournament.

Bigger International Event Planned for August 2026

Association officials said the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers will become a landmark event in Gujarat's sporting history.

They also announced that Ahmedabad is scheduled to host an even larger international basketball championship - FIBA U18 Asia Cup - in August 2026, further strengthening Gujarat's ambition of becoming a global sports hub.

The Gujarat State Basketball Association has invited sports enthusiasts, students, and families to attend the matches, cheer for Team India, and be part of this international basketball celebration.