While FIBA’s meeting in late August left questions unanswered regarding its headgear restrictions, the organization released a statement today detailing a two-year testing phase that will allow players in turbans, hijabs, and other headgear to play. More from FIBA:
“In response to the various requests received, the Central Board held in-depth discussions regarding rules about uniforms and decided to put a testing phase into place for the next two years that will consist of:
– Relaxing the current rules regarding headgear in order to enable national federations to request, as of now, exceptions to be applied at the national level within their territory without incurring any sanctions for violation of FIBA’s Official Basketball Rules. National Federations wishing to apply for such an exception to the uniform regulations shall submit a detailed request to FIBA. Once approved, they shall submit follow-up reports twice a year to monitor the use of such exceptions.
– The players will be allowed to play in FIBA endorsed 3×3 competitions – both nationally and internationally – wearing headgear without restrictions, unless the latter presents a direct threat to their safety or that of other players on the court. Players wishing to take part in such competitions with headgear must ensure that a detailed request for approval is addressed to FIBA.
– FIBA will communicate with National Federations over the coming weeks on the subject of these request procedures.”
