MIES (Switzerland) - The first-ever FIBA Masters Open will bring together thousands of 40+ players from across the world in an inclusive event that will celebrate the power of basketball and its unique ability to unite people.
The FIBA Masters Open 2026 is an exciting new instrument in FIBA's long-term participation strategy, serving to strengthen its vision of one, global basketball community.
Approved by the FIBA Central Board, the inaugural FIBA Masters Open will be held in Greece, in collaboration with the Hellenic Basketball Federation and supported by the Regional Governments of Attica (Western Attica) and Corinth.
The FIBA Masters Open 2026 will offer players aged 40 and above, men and women, the chance to compete in both basketball and 3x3, reinforcing FIBA’s commitment to expanding its global basketball community.
The inaugural event will take place from July 4 to 12 in Corinth and Loutraki, two historic and touristic destinations which lie approximately 80 kilometers west of Athens. Greece was chosen to host the tournament due to its outstanding basketball heritage and proven track record in organizing FIBA tournaments.
The FIBA Masters Open 2026 is not limited to national teams or former professional players; with the main eligibility criteria being the age of athletes, with any player able to participate, and more than one team per country welcome. The event will also be split into 5-year age categories, starting from 40-45 years old and extending up to 75+.
It is anticipated that the new tournament will bring together more than 2000 participants from around the world, representing over 200 teams, including 3x3. The event will introduce a festival-like, celebratory atmosphere, with games taking place at between 15 and 18 dedicated venues.
Additionally, the introduction of this new competition is expected to have wider benefits, including supporting active ageing, promoting healthy lifestyles, and contributing to meeting Sustainable Development Goals that are linked to sport participation.
We are proud to offer new opportunities to the FIBA Family, and the introduction of the FIBA Masters Open 2026 is something for the sport to truly celebrate.
Zagklis continued, "FIBA has recognized not only the importance of providing a competition like this for those over the age of 40, but also the wider health and social benefits that such a competition can bring for the community as a whole.
"We are also very appreciative of the support we have received from the Hellenic Basketball Federation, who have already shown their ability as excellent organizers of FIBA events, and the Regional Governments of Attica (Western Attica) and Corinth in hosting the event."
Meanwhile, Hellenic Basketball Federation President, Vangelis Liolios, added: "We are proud to be the hosts for the first-ever FIBA Masters Open and welcome FIBA Family members from all over the world.
We are looking forward to the thousands of players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans enjoying both being part of this historic tournament and also everything that Greece has to offer off the court.
"We are looking forward to the thousands of players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans enjoying both being part of this historic tournament and also everything that Greece has to offer off the court."
Those interested in playing at the FIBA Masters Open 2026 and being part of history are encouraged to act quickly to make the most of combining a unique FIBA experience with renowned Greek hospitality and creating unforgettable memories.
Pre-register for the FIBA Masters Open 2026 here. For more information on the event, click here and follow on Facebook. ###
About FIBA FIBA (fiba.basketball) - the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 212 National Basketball Federations throughout the world. It is recognized as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
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