Middle East crisis: ICC activates contingency plans to support stakeholder safety, well-being
- Says will continue to issue updates as situation evolves
The International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Saturday it was closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East and had activated “comprehensive contingency plans” to safeguard the travel, logistics and well-being of all stakeholders associated with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, currently underway in India and Sri Lanka.
The development came after Israel and US carried out attacks on Iran, and Tehran launched retaliatory strikes on regional bases.
“While the crisis in the Middle East has no direct bearing on the conduct of the tournament, the ICC acknowledges that a significant number of personnel - including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event staff - rely on Gulf hub airports, particularly Dubai (DXB), as key transit points for onward travel to their home countries upon concluding their commitments at the event,” the ICC said in a press release.
“The safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC’s highest priority. We have already mobilised our travel, logistics and security teams, and are working around the clock to ensure that all stakeholders can return home safely, with minimal disruption. We would also urge fans who have travelled or were planning to travel for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 to monitor closely and adhere to advisories being issued and consider all factors before undertaking any further international travel,” ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying.
Measures currently in place
The ICC Travel and Logistics team was actively working with major international carriers to identify and secure alternative routing options, including connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs, the council said.
“The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated.
“The ICC will continue to issue updates as the situation evolves and remains committed to the smooth and safe conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,” the statement read.
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