TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The International Basketball Federation (FIBA), an association of national organizations which governs the sport of basketball worldwide, moved Taiwan's March 1, 2026, basketball match against China from Taipei to Manila, Philippines, the Chinese Taipei Basketball Association (CTBA, 中華籃協) confirmed Tuesday (Dec. 23). The relocation affects the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifier originally scheduled for Taipei, with both teams' home games now moved to neutral venues. FIBA also relocated the July 6, 2026, match originally scheduled in China to a neutral location.
Richard Chang (張承中), CTBA deputy secretary-general, announced both March and July matches will occur at neutral locations Tuesday (Dec. 23). The association communicated its concerns to FIBA and the Ministry of Sport (MOS, 運動部), Taiwan's sports ministry, requesting clarification on the relocation decision and its implications. FIBA will formally respond to CTBA's concerns in writing, while the association maintains communication with the MOS to ensure protection of Taiwan's rights.
The relocation sparked widespread discussion amid sensitive cross-strait political tensions between Taiwan and China, the People's Republic of China, raising questions about FIBA's decision-making process. FIBA's official website initially showed the July match remaining in China before announcing both games would move to neutral venues. Taiwan currently sits at the bottom of its 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifier group after suffering losses to Japan. ◼