France awarded hosting rights for 2031 Basketball World Cup

France is finally getting its moment on basketball’s biggest stage. The French Basketball Federation (FFBB) has officially been awarded hosting rights for the 2031 Basketball World Cup by FIBA’s central bureau, ending a long wait for the country to host the sport’s premier international tournament.

The announcement comes remarkably early in the selection process, with the decision made just three months after the specifications were published and eleven months ahead of the supposed designation date of March 2027. FIBA simultaneously awarded Japan the hosting rights for the 2030 Women’s World Cup.

Three cities selected for historic tournament

The tournament will be spread across three French cities: Lille, Lyon, and Paris, with the capital set to host the final phase. Scheduled to run from August 29 to September 14, 2031, the World Cup will feature three phases and eight groups of four teams for the first round.

This represents a significant milestone for French basketball, as the country had never previously hosted a World Cup despite its basketball heritage. France was particularly unlucky during its bid for the 2010 World Cup, making this victory even sweeter for the federation.

FFBB President Jean-Pierre Hunckler had expressed confidence about the candidacy in September, stating: « There are no red lights. » His optimism proved well-founded, as the bid encountered only green lights throughout the process.

The French World Cup promises substantial popular success, following the model of EuroBasket 2015 (organized urgently after Ukraine‘s withdrawal) and the 2024 Olympic Games. The timing also presents incredible sporting opportunities, as the Wembanyama generation should reach its peak by 2031.

If all goes according to plan, Victor Wembanyama will be in his prime at 27 years old, potentially accompanied by other exceptional talents in their peak years or already established with the national team, including players like Sarr, Risacher, Raynaud, and Soliman. This convergence of hosting duties and generational talent could create the perfect storm for French basketball success.