As the countdown to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 gathers pace, all eyes turn to Doha on May 13, where the Qualifiers Draw will officially launch the road to one of the sport’s biggest global stages. It’s not just another date on the calendar – it’s a key milestone in Qatar’s journey toward hosting an event that promises to reshape how the basketball world views international competition.
The draw kicks off a two-year qualification cycle involving 80 national teams, 420 games and six intense windows of play. For Qatar, it’s another opportunity to showcase its world-renowned capacity to deliver sporting events with precision, ambition and flair. Having already hosted the FIFA World Cup 2022, the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and major championships in athletics, handball and motorsport, Qatar continues to prove that it doesn’t just stage global events – it sets new standards for them.
Doha will make history as the first city ever to host the FIBA Basketball World Cup in its entirety. With 32 teams competing in one location, Qatar 2027 offers a level of unity, efficiency and fan experience that no previous edition has matched. From logistics to cultural integration, the single-city model positions Qatar to deliver an unforgettable tournament that’s both globally connected and distinctly local.
The Qualifiers Draw itself will set the tone for what’s to come. NBA legend Carmelo Anthony will headline the event, alongside FIBA President Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani and leading voices from across the basketball world. Qatar’s Mutaz Barshim, the four-time Olympic medallist in high jump, Yassin Mousa, GGC basketball legend and 3x3 world champion, as well as more than 60 representatives from National Federations around the globe will also be present.
It follows the recent unveiling of the tournament’s logo – a bold design rooted in Qatari culture, featuring the iconic Bisht and anchored by the campaign slogan “Step It Up.” It’s a brand identity that speaks to more than just sport – it’s about growth, ambition and leaving a legacy.
Basketball’s popularity continues to rise across the region and Qatar 2027 is emerging as a defining chapter in that growth. More than just another host nation, Qatar is sending a clear message to the international basketball community: the Middle East is not only ready for the spotlight – it belongs there. Backed by elite infrastructure, unmatched hospitality, and a proven track record, Qatar isn’t simply planning another tournament. It’s building a benchmark.
