EuroLeague Officials Optimistic About Return of Games to Israel
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
EuroLeague and EuroCup games may return to Israel after league officials visited and met with teams, with co-owner Gal Mekel expressing optimism. The officials observed that the situation in Israel is suitable for hosting games, though political factors remain. Mekel hopes for a similar process to that which allowed games in Dubai, and anticipates franchise license changes within months.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- EuroLeague and EuroCup games may return to Israel following a visit by league officials.
- Gal Mekel, co-owner of Hapoel Jerusalem, expressed optimism about the potential return of games.
- League officials observed that the situation in Israel is suitable for hosting games.
- Political considerations are a factor in the decision-making process for the games' return.
- Mekel hopes for a similar process to that which allowed games to be played in Dubai.
- Changes regarding franchise licenses are expected within the next few months.
EuroLeague and EuroCup games may soon return to Israel, following a visit by league officials. Gal Mekel, co-owner of Hapoel Jerusalem, expressed optimism after meetings with league representatives and Israeli teams, including Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv. Mekel stated that the primary goal of the visit was to facilitate the return of games to Israel, and that the officials enjoyed their 24-hour stay, observing that everything was in order.
Mekel believes the league officials now understand that the current situation allows for games to be held in Israel, but emphasized that the decision also involves political considerations. He expressed hope that the league's leadership, specifically mentioning "Buno" (likely referring to Jordi Bertomeu, the EuroLeague CEO at the time), would successfully navigate these political aspects.
Comparing the situation to games being played in Dubai, Mekel noted that the EuroLeague had similar concerns there but ultimately established protocols and dialogue with stakeholders, leading to a decision to play there. He hopes for a similar process to allow games back in Israel.
Regarding the pursuit of franchise licenses, Mekel indicated that team owners generally favor expanding the league with a franchise model, focusing on the EuroLeague's development rather than solely on the NBA Europe model. He is confident that Hapoel Jerusalem has a place in this future model and is actively working towards it.
Mekel anticipates that these changes could occur within the next few months, stressing that team selection for long-term partnerships involves more than just wins and losses, but also a team's capabilities, desire, patience, and added value.
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