EuroLeague Officials Visit Israel Amid Hopes for Return of Games

EuroLeague officials recently visited Israel to assess the possibility of resuming games in the country, with both Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv awaiting a final decision. Avi Ben Tal, CEO of Maccabi Tel Aviv, shared details of the visit, which included meetings with EuroLeague executives, ambassadors from various countries, and players from Israeli teams. Ben Tal highlighted the positive impression the delegation received from the hospitality and the atmosphere at Israeli sporting events, noting that it countered foreign perceptions of constant conflict. He specifically mentioned a football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Sakhnin, and a basketball game attended by 11,000 fans, as examples of the vibrant life in Israel.

During the visit, discussions were held with ambassadors who expressed warm sentiments towards Israel, which Ben Tal believes could positively influence the EuroLeague's decision. He also recounted an emotional conversation with players from Hapoel Jerusalem and Hapoel Tel Aviv, who spoke movingly about their experiences in Israel, an impact he deemed more significant than financial considerations. Ben Tal expressed hope for a decision within the next four days, emphasizing that there is no reason games cannot return to Israel given the sustained security and normalcy.

Currently, Maccabi Tel Aviv is playing its home games in Belgrade, Serbia, as per EuroLeague regulations, while awaiting a definitive ruling on playing in Tel Aviv. Ben Tal hopes the team will not have to wait until 2027 without playing in Israel and is optimistic about the team's current positive momentum. He also noted the strong support from Israeli fans, with charter flights to games consistently full, and efforts underway to bring Maccabi fans to Belgrade.