(24/03/2020): Today the IOC announced the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games which will now take place no later than the summer of 2021.

Following the announcement, Lisa Pearce, Chief Executive of British Wheelchair Basketball said:

“Although it is, of course, with deep sadness that our athletes will not be able to showcase their incredible talent on the Paralympic stage this summer, this is undoubtedly the right decision in light of the escalating global pandemic.

“At times like this, the health and well-being of everyone involved must be the number one priority, and I wholeheartedly support the decision made by the IOC, IPC and the Tokyo Organising Committee which rightly prioritises the health of athletes, coaches, support staff, officials, volunteers and spectators.

“The announcement removes the uncertainty surrounding this summer’s Paralympics Games, and we now look forward to refocusing our efforts to planning for the re-scheduled Games, whilst continuing to support our athletes and staff through this challenging time.”

Jayne Ellis, Performance Director at British Wheelchair Basketball, said:

“Our priority in any situation is the health and well-being of our athletes and staff team.

“Today’s announcement provides clarity on the situation and we can now focus on supporting our players through these challenging times and look forward to returning to training and competition, when the time is right.

“We are staying at home and we urge you to do the same.”

British Wheelchair Basketball would like to put on record our enormous gratitude for the front-line workers who are working to keep our communities safe and well. Our thoughts remain with the families and individuals affected by COVID-19.

Full IOC Announcement: https://www.olympic.org/news/joint-statement-from-the-international-olympic-committee-and-the-tokyo-2020-organising-committee