UKA has selected a team for the March 14-15 event in Nicosia, but has now withdrawn due to the conflict in Iran.
Great Britain have pulled out of the European Throwing Cup in Nicosia, Cyprus due to the ongoing war in the Middle East.
UK Athletics can confirm that, following safety advice, we will not be sending a team to the upcoming European Cup. Given the situation in the Middle East and the heightened security concerns surrounding British operations in Cyprus, we believe the unknown risk and possible disruption to the team is too great.
“The team was selected earlier this week and we share the disappointment of our athletes. We wish everyone involved a successful event and look forward to returning in 2027.”
Athletes hoping to compete in the event include multiple British shooting champion Scott Lincoln ahead of next weekend’s World Indoor Championships in Poland (March 20-22).
The small eastern Mediterranean nation was suddenly drawn into the US-Israeli strikes on Iran when a drone struck the RAF’s Akrotiri base there on March 2.
More generally, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warned that “terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out”.
In its latest guide (March 6), the MFA stated: “There is a high risk of a terrorist attack affecting UK interests and British people, including by groups and individuals who view the UK and UK citizens as targets. Always be aware of your surroundings.”
The European Throwing Cup, however, is still ongoing and no other countries have qualified.
At the moment, it is not known how long the conflict will continue or if it will escalate. But the next event in the area that could have an impact is the Diamond League in Doha in two months on May 8.
