Panathinaikos Owner Criticizes EuroLeague Over Security Lapses at Athens Semi-Final

(MENAFN) Panathinaikos owner Dimitrios Giannakopoulos has strongly criticized the EuroLeague following reported security and organizational failures during the Olympiacos–Fenerbahçe Beko semi-final in Athens.

According to reports, Giannakopoulos expressed his concerns in a post on Instagram, alleging that basic entry procedures were not properly enforced during the event.

“Not even proper ID or ticket checks were conducted last night. Against this background, you still allowed thousands of people to enter the stadium."

He also called for accountability from both organizers and authorities, arguing that the situation represented a serious breach of responsibility toward paying spectators.

"Police or authorities, whatever you call yourselves, I, on behalf of Panathinaikos fans and thousands of others who paid to watch the match, expect a big apology," he added.

Reports indicate that the controversy surrounding the Final Four in Athens has expanded beyond participating clubs, with multiple stakeholders raising concerns over crowd control, ticket validation, and overall event security.

Giannakopoulos further stressed that the EuroLeague administration should assume full responsibility for the incidents, which have drawn widespread criticism across European basketball.

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