Latvian Basketball Federation condemns online abuse of young players over skin colour
The Latvian Basketball Federation has publicly condemned social media incidents where young Latvian basketball players were abused over their skin colour or origin, sparking widespread public debate.
Kaspars Cipruss, Secretary General of the Latvian Basketball Federation (LBS), issued a statement on Saturday, August 8, responding to several social media incidents in which young Latvian basketball players were targeted with abuse over their skin colour or ethnic background. Cipruss stated that once these athletes put on the Latvian national team jersey, they represent the country and are considered "one of ours."
Zero tolerance for racism
In his statement, Cipruss emphasized that racism and discrimination are neither an opinion nor a form of humour, and have no place in Latvian basketball's values. He said the federation will not tolerate such incidents and has already contacted the international basketball organization requesting increased monitoring of such comments online. If necessary, the LBS is also prepared to involve Latvian law enforcement authorities.
Public reaction divided
The statement triggered a sharp divide in online reactions. Many users backed the federation's position, arguing that such discrimination should no longer need discussion in 2026 and noting that the young athletes were born, raised and trained in Latvia. Others, however, disagreed, arguing that only ethnic Latvians should represent the national team, with some expressing their views in offensive and racist terms. Former Latvian footballer Jurijs Žigajevs described such comments as "very sad," stressing that this concerns values that must not be lost.
The federation urged the public not to judge young athletes by their skin colour or origin, stating that representing the national team is defined by what a player contributes to the team and the country, not by their background.
