VIBF Zone Representatives (voluntary – multiple positions)

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The Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF) is the new global governing body for basketball for players with an intellectual impairment.  With a mission to drive the development of elite basketball worldwide for players with an intellectual impairment, the VIBF organises multiple international world championships, sets standards for Basketball players and advocates for the sport’s inclusion in the Paralympic Games by 2032.  Virtus, the owner of the VIBF, has a base of over 90 national member organisations from every continent.

The inaugural Zone Representatives on VIBF will be appointed in early 2025 and work with other Executive Committee members on the development and recognition of VIBF by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and Fédération Internationale de Basketball (FIBA), lead the strategy setting that will grow basketball world-wide for high performance players with intellectual impairments and ensure key targets related to 3×3 basketball and women’s basketball are met.  Further, the VIBF Zone Representatives will be the voice for this exciting new organisation and movement within Virtus Zones.

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Virtus forms VIBF, igniting a new era for basketball for players with an intellectual impairment

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Virtus, the international sports federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment, proudly announces the formation of the Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting basketball for athletes with an intellectual impairment.

With a strong focus on inclusion, VIBF will provide structured competition opportunities, ensuring both men and women can compete at the highest level. As the popularity of 3×3 basketball continues to rise globally, VIBF aims to drive participation, create pathways for elite competition, and foster a dynamic, inclusive basketball community.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF), marking a major step in expanding basketball for athletes with an intellectual impairment. This launch strengthens our position in the para sport landscape and furthers our commitment to growing the sport worldwide,” said Marc Truffaut, President of Virtus.

Sharing the excitement with the VIBF’s formation, Virtus Basketball Sport Director, Tony Guihot said,

“For too long, basketball players with intellectual impairment have fought for recognition, their talents overshadowed and their dreams put on hold.  The creation of the Virtus International Basketball Federation is not just a response to that struggle, it is a bold statement that their passion, skill, and dedication deserve to shine bright on the global stage.  This is more than just an organisation;  it is a movement, a beacon of hope.  The future of basketball for players with intellectual impairment is now brighter, fairer, and more inspiring than ever.”

This new federation will spearhead the growth and development of basketball for athletes with an intellectual impairment. Direct management and responsibility for Virtus basketball will, over the coming weeks, pass from Virtus to the VIBF.

Key Objectives of VIBF:

  • Champion the inclusion and recognition of athletes with an intellectual impairment in global basketball competitions.
  • Provide men and women with equal opportunities to compete and showcase their talents.
  • Expand the reach of 3×3 basketball, fostering a fast-paced, exciting, and widely accessible version of the sport.
  • Create a dynamic and inclusive global basketball community that drives positive change and inspires athletes worldwide.

The first official VIBF competition is set for 2025 VIBF is proud to announce its inaugural 3×3 basketball competition, which will take place during the 2025 Virtus World Basketball Championships in Kazakhstan this June. This landmark event will bring together athletes, teams, and supporters from around the world to celebrate the spirit of competition, inclusion, and sportsmanship.

Virtus invites basketball federations, teams, and athletes to join VIBF and be part of this groundbreaking movement.

More details about the VIBF will follow in the coming weeks.

2025 Prohibited list now in force

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The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) wishes to remind stakeholders that the 2025 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods (List) and the 2025 Monitoring Program enter into force on 1st January 2025.

The List designates what substances and methods are prohibited both in- and out-of-competition and which substances are banned in particular sports.

Major modifications for 2025 

As outlined in the 2025 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes, the major modifications for 2025 include the following:

  • Further examples were added to the following substance classes to help athletes and their entourage better identify prohibited substances:
    • S0. Non-approved substances,
    • S4. Hormone and metabolic modulators,
    • S5. Diuretics and masking agents, and
    • S6. Stimulants.
  • The dosing intervals of formoterol have been changed, though the maximum daily delivered dose remains the same.
  • Donation of blood and blood components including by apheresis are no longer prohibited if performed in an accredited collection center.
  • Hydrafinil is now classified as a non-specified stimulant.
  • It is clarified that guanfacine is not a prohibited substance.
  • Beta-blockers are no longer prohibited in any skiing and snowboarding disciplines.

For a substance or method to be added to the List, it must be determined that it meets at least two of the following three criteria:

  1. It has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance
  2. It represents an actual or potential health risk to the athletes
  3. It violates the spirit of sport

Ultimately, athletes are responsible for prohibited substances found in their body and prohibited methods found to have been used. Members of an athlete’s entourage are also liable for Anti-Doping Rule Violations if determined to be complicit. Consequently, if there is any doubt as to the status of a substance or method, it is important that they contact their respective Anti-Doping Organizations (International Federation or National Anti-Doping Organization) for advice.

The Therapeutic Use Exemption Program 

It should be noted that athletes who have a legitimate medical reason for using a prohibited substance or method that is on the List can apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) to determine whether they meet the criteria outlined in the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE). The TUE Program is a rigorous and necessary part of elite sport and has overwhelming acceptance from athletes, physicians, and anti-doping stakeholders.

The 2025 Prohibited List, the 2025 Summary of Modifications and Explanatory Notes, and the 2025 Monitoring Program are available for download on WADA’s website in English, French, and Spanish.

Visit the Virtus Anti-Doping pages

Public and Athletes Enjoy 3×3 Basketball Demonstration At Club France During Paris 2024

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Virtus, the International Sports Federation for athletes with intellectual impairments, made a significant impact at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games with a dynamic 3-on-3 Basketball demonstration held at Club France Arena on August 29th and 30th. This event was designed to highlight the high-level basketball program Virtus offers for athletes with intellectual impairments while raising awareness about the challenges and potential of these athletes through the power of sports.

Organized in collaboration with the Fédération Française du Sport Adapté (FFSA) and the French Paralympic Committee, the demonstration showcased the incredible skills of athletes from Portugal, France, and Spain. These friendly matches provided a platform for athletes with intellectual impairments to shine in a team sports setting.

“It’s an honor for us to come here during the Paralympic Games and show the French people what we can do,” shared one of the Polish players, reflecting the pride and excitement felt by all participants.

Portuguese and French athletes engaging in a friendly match in Club France at Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

While athletes with intellectual impairments have been competing in individual sports like athletics, swimming, and table tennis at the Paralympics, the absence of team sports for this group is still evident. Virtus is dedicated to changing this.

“The atmosphere here is incredible. Watching other sports like Para Swimming and wheelchair basketball inspired us. Competing at the Paralympic Games has always been our dream, and we hope it comes true one day,” said Portuguese player Fabio Soares, capturing the hopes of many athletes.

The event was not just about competition; it was also a chance for athletes to engage with the public, especially young fans. The players were seen engaging in fun dribbling and basket-scoring competitions with French people, especially children.

“My child loves basketball, and today’s event was a real treat. The athletes were so friendly and even taught him how to dribble properly,” said a parent whose eight-year-old son enjoyed the day’s activities.

Athlete engaging with children at Club France. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

Jose Costa Pereira, Head of the Portuguese delegation, praised the event:

“Seeing 3×3 Basketball here in France during the Paralympic Games is a fantastic way to raise awareness and prove that athletes with intellectual impairments can compete fiercely in this sport.”

As the international teams return home, French athletes will continue to play friendly matches and engage with the public, keeping the spirit of inclusion and competition alive throughout the Games.

The 2025 Virtus World Basketball And World Tennis Championship Are Coming To Kazakhstan

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Virtus is delighted to announce that the 2025 Virtus World Basketball and 2025 Virtus World Tennis Championships are making their way to Kazakhstan. Virtus member – Federation of Sports for Persons with Intellectual Development Disabilities- IDSport will host the events.

The 2025 Virtus World Basketball Championship will be held from June 12th to 24th, 2025, at the Zhekpe-Zhek Arena and Saryarka Velotrek in Astana. This event is supported by the Kazakhstan Basketball Federation (FIBA National Federation) and the Government of Astana, ensuring top-tier facilities and organizational expertise. Both venues hold FIBA certification and have a history of hosting international events, guaranteeing a world-class experience for all participants.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Virtus World Tennis Championship will take place from May 5th to 10th, 2025, in Astana. Under the leadership of Dave Miley, Executive Director of the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, and Yerik Ilyassov, a seasoned organizer with extensive experience in both national and international sports events, this championship promises to deliver high-quality competition and excellent organization. Miley’s decades-long tenure with the ITF and Ilyassov’s successful history in organizing significant sports events underscore the expertise behind this event.

Hosting two international events the IDSport President in Kazakhstan Ms Dina Temirgaliyeva stated,

“We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing these international events to not only Kazakhstan but also the Asian continent for the very first time and know that we have all the resources and a professional team to create world-class events with a warm welcome in the heart of Eurasia. Our commitment to the principles of inclusion and equality in sports will attract all athletes and sports organizations in the country.”

The Local Organizing Committee anticipates that these two events will promote inclusivity, raise awareness of intellectual impairment, and inspire athletes nationwide. They also aim to change societal perceptions and increase the visibility of people with intellectual impairment. By showcasing their abilities and informing the public about their potential and achievements, the event hopes to foster greater understanding and support.

“Virtus Kazakhstan is one of our very new Virtus members and they have already hosted the 2024 Virtus World Half Marathon and 10k Road race last year which was a fantastic experience for us and the athletes. We have full confidence that they will host these two events perfectly too”, said Virtus President, Marc Truffaut.

“Kazakhstan’s role as the sole Central Asian representative in the Virtus Association provides an opportunity to engage neighbouring countries, enhance regional participation in future Virtus events and inspire more athletes with intellectual impairment to practice and compete in sports”, he further added.

The legacy of these championships is anticipated to mark strong partnerships with national sports federations and support from the local executive body of Astana and the Ministry of Sports and Culture. The events will lay the foundation for sustainable opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairment in Kazakhstan and beyond, advancing the global movement for inclusive sports.

More information about the event will be available on Virtus website soon.