EuroLeague defends itself: "Nobody without a ticket was inside the venue"

Chus Bueno, the EuroLeague's general director, addressed reported access problems at the Final Four semifinals in Athens, stating that while "inconveniences" occurred, "nobody entered without a ticket." He explained that issues with the ticket management platform led to delays in ticket issuance, causing frustration and confusion among some fans. Bueno confirmed that these platform problems have since been resolved.

Bueno clarified that a specific group of 187 individuals initially faced difficulties entering the venue. However, he assured that after verifying their names on the registration list, they were permitted to pass security checks and enter the arena. "They passed security and entered. Nobody without a ticket was inside the venue," Bueno stated, addressing rumors circulating on social media.

He apologized to the affected fans, noting that all ticket holders were able to enter before the semifinal matches began. Looking ahead to the final between Real Madrid and Olympiacos, Bueno indicated that security measures and visibility would be increased to ensure a smoother experience for attendees.

EuroLeague President Dejan Boridoga specifically apologized to Fenerbahce fans, who were among the most affected by the entry issues. "They were able to enter, but we did not do it in the way we normally like to do it," he said, offering apologies to the club and its supporters. The administration of the Telekom Center in Athens had previously reported failures and delays in ticket delivery by the organizers, suggesting that "thousands of fans" gained access without valid tickets or were left outside.