Indian Men's Basketball Team Returns After 10 Days in Doha
Synopsis
After a challenging 10-day stay in Doha due to geopolitical tensions, the Indian men's basketball team is heading home. The Basketball Federation of India confirmed their return, highlighting the support received from various organizations.
Key Takeaways
10 Days Stranded: The Indian men's basketball team faced a challenging situation in Doha.
Safety First: The Qatar Basketball Federation ensured the team's safety with logistical support.
Emergency Response: The Indian Embassy played a crucial role in facilitating the team's return.
Split Departure: Due to limited flights, the team had to travel in two groups.
Gratitude Expressed: The BFI thanked various organizations for their support.
New Delhi, March 10 (NationPress) Following a 10-day ordeal in Doha, the Indian men's basketball team is finally returning home, as confirmed by the Basketball Federation of India on Tuesday.
The team had traveled to Doha for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers but became stuck in the Qatari capital due to escalating geopolitical tensions that disrupted international air travel.
The Qatar Basketball Federation stepped in, providing accommodation and logistical support to ensure the safety and security of both players and staff until the Indian Embassy facilitated their return.
The team first made their way to Damman by road, splitting into two groups due to restricted flight options. One group took a route from Dammam to Jeddah and then to Mumbai, while the other flew directly from Dammam to Lucknow.
The Basketball Federation of India shared that on March 8, 2026, the team traveled by road from Doha to Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Due to limited flight availability, they were divided into two groups: one went Dammam → Jeddah → Mumbai, arriving at 12:05 AM, and the other took a direct flight to Lucknow, landing at 5:15 AM.
The BFI emphasized that its President and Secretary General maintained ongoing communication with the FIBA Asia office, the Indian government, and the Indian Embassy in Doha to ensure the team's safe return.
The federation expressed its appreciation to FIBA Asia, the Qatar Basketball Federation, and the Indian embassies in Doha and Saudi Arabia for their critical support during this challenging situation.
"We are sincerely grateful to the FIBA Asia office, the Qatar Basketball Federation, and the Indian embassies for their invaluable assistance during this difficult time," it stated.
Point of View
Politics, and international relations.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Indian men's basketball team stranded in Doha?
The team was stranded due to ongoing geopolitical tensions that disrupted international air travel.
How did the team manage to return home?
The team first traveled to Dammam by road and then split into two groups to depart on limited flights.
What support did the Indian team receive during their stay?
The Qatar Basketball Federation provided accommodation and logistical support, and the Indian Embassy facilitated their return.
When did the Indian men's basketball team leave Doha?
The team departed Doha on March 8, 2026, traveling first to Dammam.
What was the response of the Basketball Federation of India regarding the incident?
The BFI expressed gratitude towards FIBA Asia, the Qatar Basketball Federation, and the Indian embassies for their support during the ordeal.
