FIBA Starts ‘Revision Process’ after Hijab Row
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) insisted its ban has no ‘religious connotation’ but said it had started a ‘revision process’ after several complaints.
FIBA came in for strong criticism after Qatar’s women were refused permission to play in hijabs, a decision one player described as an “insult” and failure to respect the Gulf state’s dominant Muslim religion.
The body said the ban on headgear more than 5 centimetres (2 inches) wide was not discriminatory but it could start “tests” on easing the restrictions in international competition next year.
The rule has already been relaxed at national level after a number of complaints.
In July and August, Indian Sikh players were forced to remove their headwear at FIBA events.
“International tests may be initiated as of summer 2015,” said a FIBA statement which insisted that its regulations apply “without any religious connotation.”
“While certain groups have interpreted the provisions of the official basketball rules as a ban against the participation of players of certain faiths in basketball competitions, the uniform regulations are of a purely sporting nature,” it added. Qatar, formally listed as “disqualified” from the Asian Games after forfeiting their first two games, were the only Muslim country to enter a women’s team.
Source: Peninsula Qatar
