The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) is delighted to announce that the hosting rights for the inaugural IWBF 3x3 Open World Championships for Men and Women have been awarded to Wheelchair Basketball South Africa (WBSA). This landmark event will take place from August 1-3, 2025, at the renowned Sun City resort in South Africa, with teams arriving on July 29 and departing on August4, 2025.
This will be the first-ever IWBF 3x3 World Championship, marking a significant milestone in the history of wheelchair basketball. South Africa's selection as host not only highlights the country's track record in organising zonal championships but also signals a momentous opportunity for Africa to showcase its passion for wheelchair basketball on the global stage.
IWBF has identified 3x3 wheelchair basketball as a strategic priority, recognizing its potential to offer smaller nations and individual players the chance to shine on the world stage. This championship builds on the success of recent events such as the 3x3 Europe Cup and 3x3competitions at the Commonwealth Games, which have demonstrated the format's ability to engage new audiences and elevate the sport globally.
IWBF President Ulf Mehrens expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event:
"The inaugural IWBF 3x3 Open World Championships represent an exciting new chapter for wheelchair basketball, and we are thrilled to bring this innovative format to life in South Africa. We are confident that Wheelchair Basketball South Africa will deliver an remarkable championship, laying the path for future 3x3 competitions. This event is a breakthrough for IWBF in the 3x3 format of the sport, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming teams from around the world to Africa for this historic occasion."
Craig Moorgas, President of Wheelchair Basketball South Africa, echoed this excitement:
"Hosting the 2025 IWBF 3x3 Open World Championships is a profound honor for South Africa and a monumental step forward for wheelchair basketball in Africa. As the first-ever IWBF 3x3 World Championship, and the first IWBF World Championship to be held on African soil, this event underscores our commitment to advancing the sport and inspiring future generations. We extend our gratitude to the IWBF for this opportunity and look forward to showcasing the spirit and diversity of South Africa while delivering an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike."
This announcement follows the cancellation of the inaugural 3x3 World Championships in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. IWBF and WBSA are now united in their commitment to making the 2025 championship a momentous occasion for the global wheelchair basketball community.
Further details, including participating nations, ticketing and broadcast information, will be released in the coming months.
