The FIBA Masters Open 2026 emerges as an unexpected and deeply meaningful invitation for the global community of basketball players over 40. More than a tournament, this new event represents a recognition of the value of experience, the desire to keep competing, and the role that sport plays at every stage of life. Its first edition, set to take place in Greece, aims to create a space where thousands of players can reconnect with the court and with the community spirit that has always defined basketball.
As more details of the project become known, it becomes clear that the initiative responds to a broad vision of participation and development driven by FIBA. The creation of this event, approved by its Central Board and supported by the Hellenic Basketball Federation and the regional governments of Attica and Corinth, reflects a deep commitment to inclusion. In both traditional basketball and 3×3, men and women over 40 will have the opportunity to compete regardless of their professional background, nationality, or sporting journey.
A tournament designed for a diverse and global community
The FIBA Masters Open 2026 is presented as a bridge that unites tradition, competitiveness, and celebration. Its host cities, Corinth and Loutraki, historic destinations located near Athens, will welcome athletes from around the world from July 4 to 12. More than 2,000 players are expected to participate, spread across more than 200 teams and grouped in categories every five years starting at age 40. This structure allows people of advanced ages — even over 75 — to experience an international sporting event, reaffirming the belief that passion for basketball has no age limit.
The scope of the tournament is not only reflected in numbers but also in its inclusive nature. There will be no restrictions linked to national teams or previous professional careers. Any player may register, and each country may present multiple teams. In this sense, the tournament becomes a space where diverse trajectories coexist, from committed amateurs to former athletes seeking to extend their bond with the sport.
The social and human value behind the FIBA Masters Open
Beyond competition, the new tournament is conceived as a tool to promote well-being, active aging, and healthy living among thousands of people. FIBA’s initiative aims not only to expand its global community but also to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals linked to physical activity and social participation. For Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Secretary General, this step represents a celebration for the entire basketball family, recognizing the importance of continuing to create opportunities for those who wish to stay active and connected.
The enthusiasm is also reflected in Greece, where the president of the Hellenic Basketball Federation, Vangelis Liolios, highlighted the country’s readiness to welcome teams, coaches, referees, volunteers, and fans. Greek hospitality, combined with the nation’s basketball tradition, promises to create a unique environment blending sport, culture, and community. For those who wish to take part in this first edition, the invitation is clear: act quickly and join an event that aims to leave a lasting mark on the collective memory of the global basketball community.
