Maccabi Tel Aviv Gets Green Light for Cyprus Home Games, Fan Attendance Unresolved

Maccabi Tel Aviv has received approval from Cypriot police to host its EuroLeague home games in Cyprus, according to local reports. The police have completed their security assessment and sanctioned the use of the "Spyros Kyprianou" arena in Limassol for the Israeli team's matches. This decision removes a significant security hurdle for relocating the games.

However, the issue of spectator attendance remains undecided, with options ranging from games played behind closed doors to full fan access, depending on the assessed risk and required preparations. Further coordination is also needed with EuroLeague and Maccabi Tel Aviv to finalize arrangements.

Representatives from EuroLeague, Maccabi, and the Cypriot police were scheduled to conduct an on-site inspection of the Limassol arena to review security measures, seating arrangements, and operational readiness, a step necessary for EuroLeague's final approval.

The arena has undergone significant upgrades for the 2025 EuroBasket tournament, making it the primary candidate to serve as Maccabi's European home venue. If all procedures are completed promptly, Maccabi's first potential home game in Cyprus could be against Real Madrid on October 22, followed by a game against Paris on October 29. The team might play in Limassol until February, with a possibility of extending the venue usage until April.

A notable challenge involves hosting three Turkish teams, Fenerbahce, Besiktas, and Anadolu Efes, which will require special security arrangements. The police have prepared an initial security plan for the arrival and activities of these teams and their fans, which will be further refined in coordination with EuroLeague and Maccabi.