The British Wheelchair Basketball organization has apologised after the team turned their backs during the playing of the Israeli National Anthem, in advance of a match. The apology was made to the Israeli National Wheelchair Basketball team and the Israeli Paralympic Committee following the incident at the Nations Cup on 16 August 2025 prior to an international fixture in Cologne, Germany.

The apology followed a letter sent by UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) to Justine Baynes, Chief Executive Officer of British Wheelchair Basketball, which raised serious concerns regarding breaches of the association’s Code of Conduct and Diversity and Inclusion Plan.

Ms Baynes said: “The team acted in a manner that is inconsistent with our code of conduct and we regret any distress caused. We are continuing discussions internally and externally. We are committed to ensuring that all participants in our sport are treated with respect.”

Ms Baynes has not confirmed whether the British team members who breached the game’s regulations will be subjected to any disciplinary action. UKLFI have asked Ms Baynes to clarify this point.

Read more about the incident here