The anticipation for the return of Euroleague and BKT Eurocup games to Israel intensified following an announcement that games could resume by November 1. However, this excitement was met with a significant counter from two major Turkish teams, Fenerbahçe Beko and Anadolu Efes, who issued a joint declaration clarifying the current status of this potential development.
Reports indicated a possibility for Israeli teams to host home games again starting December 1, 2025. This revelation followed an informal EuroLeague meeting held on October 21, 2025, which was intended to reassess the situation for Israeli teams. However, the Turkish clubs highlighted that despite the upbeat press release from EuroLeague and comments from CEO Paulius Motiejūnas suggesting unanimous agreement, no official voting took place during the meeting.
The Turkish teams firmly expressed their concerns about the implications of allowing Israeli teams to resume home games, emphasizing their ongoing discussions with both state authorities and EuroLeague management. They reassured basketball fans that updates on this situation would be communicated as more information emerges.
This development signals the complexities and sensitivities surrounding international sports events, particularly in regions with historical tensions. The hope remains among fans for a resolution that will allow for the exciting return of games in Israel while balancing the concerns of all parties involved.