EuroLeague: Maccabi Moves to Cyprus, but a Security Controversy Erupts—As Many as 500 Officers Are Needed Per Game
Maccabi Tel Aviv’s move to Cyprus is already raising numerous concerns, particularly regarding security and public order. The decision to host the Israeli team’s home games in Limassol risks putting pressure on local law enforcement, which is grappling with the need to deploy extensive security measures.
According to reports in the Cypriot media, the alarm was raised by Cypriot police unions, which state that ensuring security for the EuroLeague games will require mobilizing approximately 500 officers. Managing the spectators appears to be no less complex. The plan currently under discussion calls for reserving 3,000 tickets for Maccabi supporters, 1,500 for the Cypriot public, and just 100 for fans of the opposing teams. These figures underscore the special attention being paid to event organization, even though the final details regarding access to the arena have yet to be determined.
After three seasons played away from Israel, with Belgrade serving as the venue for home games, the Israeli club will play at the Spyros Kyprianou Arena, Cyprus’s largest indoor arena, which can accommodate approximately 8,000 spectators. The debut at the new home is scheduled for the 11th game day of the 2026–27 season, featuring a derby against Hapoel Tel Aviv, coached by Demetris Itoudis. The authorization granted by the EuroLeague will remain valid until further notice and may be revised depending on how the situation in the Middle East evolves.
Meanwhile, Maccabi continues to work toward obtaining permission to return to playing home games in Israel. Should the EuroLeague fail to grant authorization by January, the game against Panathinaikos, scheduled for January 7, will also be played in Limassol. The choice of the Cypriot city is no coincidence. The Spyros Kyprianou Arena has already hosted major international events, including 15 games from the group stage of EuroBasket 2025, featuring the national teams of Greece and Cyprus.
