Maccabi Tel Aviv received final approval from the EuroLeague on Thursday afternoon to use Limassol as its home venue. The club’s first game at the Spyros Kyprianou arena is set for 12 November, against city rivals Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Three games in one week
On 17 November, Maccabi will face Olympiacos Piraeus. It has not yet been clarified how tickets will be allocated for that game.
In total, 10 to 12 games are expected to be played in Limassol, depending on the Israeli club’s progress in the competition. The schedule also includes a game on 19 November, making conditions particularly demanding for the police, given how close together the games are.
Approval after Cyprus gave the go-ahead
The EuroLeague’s decision is final. It came after the Republic of Cyprus officially confirmed that it could host the Israeli club.
Maccabi had been trying for some time to return to Israel for its games. When this proved impossible, the club turned to Cyprus. It appears that Hapoel Tel Aviv had submitted the same request but received a negative response, based on the additional burden it would place on the police.
Ticket allocation
According to what has been made public so far, Maccabi will have around 3,000 tickets for its own fans, with large numbers expected to travel from Israel.
In addition, 1,500 tickets will be available to holders of a Cypriot fan card, while the visiting team will receive 150 tickets for its own use.
Equipment still pending
Although no further change is expected, one issue remains outstanding: the arrival in Cyprus of essential equipment for the games. This includes baskets that meet EuroLeague specifications and an intercom system required for games at this level.
Security arrangements
Police will be responsible for security outside the arena and in the city of Limassol. Inside the arena, Maccabi has reached an agreement with a private security company, which will have full responsibility.
Fans entering the arena will pass through airport-style security arches, and strict security measures will apply both inside and outside the venue.
Venue handover and rental cost
The Spyros Kyprianou arena will be handed over to Maccabi at least 24 hours before each game. According to information, the rental cost per game is €10,000, including one training session for both the home and visiting teams before the game.
Rules for fan card holders
For the 1,500 fans entering with a fan card, it has been decided that entry will not be permitted with insignia of other teams, especially those of Maccabi’s opponents.
