The Justice and Public Order Minister of Cyprus Costas Fytiris addressed the expectation that Maccabi Tel Aviv will host its Euroleague matches on the neighboring island, and was asked why Cyprus approved the request this time, unlike past instances.
“Requests of this type are evaluated based on many factors. This time it was decided to grant approval for the games to take place,” he said. “We will take all necessary measures so that the matches proceed normally, without incidents. I think this is an opportunity for Cyprus to prove that it is indeed a hub of stability, regardless of the identity of the competing teams.”
Regarding the Turkish teams that will be hosted in Cyprus, he said: “Naturally, all entry regulations to the Republic of Cyprus will be respected. Beyond that, if they do not wish to arrive, that is their concern.”
It should be noted that Maccabi Tel Aviv still requires Euroleague approval for the move, and is expected to take a step toward securing that approval only if the Euroleague postpones the return to Israel. Following renovations conducted there last year, the Spyros Kyprianou Arena in Polemidia, Limassol, has a capacity of approximately 6,000 seats, but for Maccabi’s matches, entry will be permitted for up to 5,000 spectators only. The number of fans from the visiting team will also be strictly limited, and any entry of away fans will be subject to police approval.