Pessimism among Israeli teams regarding the return of the EuroLeague to Israel

The managements of Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Hapoel Jerusalem understand that EuroLeague and EuroCup games will not return to Israel in the coming months. The preparations for renewed fighting against Iran and the security situation are delaying the long-awaited approval.

Deep pessimism prevails among Israel's three top teams – Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Hapoel Jerusalem – regarding the return of EuroLeague and EuroCup games to Israel in the coming months. The main factor is the growing security establishment preparations for the possibility of renewed direct fighting against Iran after the midterm elections in the United States. Despite attempts by team leaders to convince EuroLeague CEO Chus Bueno and the league's board of directors, regional tensions and international travel advisories reinforce the refusal of foreign teams to fly to Israel. The forced continuation of exile exacts a heavy sporting and financial price, estimated at tens of millions of shekels in lost revenue from subscriptions and tickets, along with chronic physical fatigue from nonstop flights. The article also notes the hypocrisy of the EuroLeague management, which recently awarded Abu Dhabi the hosting of the Final Four.