Iran denies politics behind decision to withdraw

By Paul Carter

Iranian officials have denied that their decision to withdraw from the tournament was motivated by politics over a potential match with Israel.

Iran withdrew from their quarter-final game with the USA yesterday (Saturday), handing their opponents a 20-0 forfeit victory.

However, Iran Doust, Iran's deputy chef de mission, said that the team withdrew because of dissatisfaction with the schedule after the game was brought forward to allow live broadcast on television.

"Each match should be done one after another, but unfortunately, concerning our match they didn't observe the order and that's the reason (for pulling out)," he said.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said that all teams were aware that matches may be moved.

An IPC statement said: “The IWBF [International Wheelchair Basketball Federation] and the IPC regret this decision taken by Iran and the disruption caused to the tournament. Despite this occurrence, the IWBF and the IPC are certain that the remaining teams will continue to participate to their best and an outstanding gold medal game will be hosted on 16 September.”