Former EuroLeague CEO Jordi Bertomeu revealed he would not have taken the EuroLeague Final Four to the Middle East.
For the first time in history, the EuroLeague's Final Four will be held outside of Europe, as the continent’s biggest club basketball event will take place in Abu Dhabi this May.
Former EuroLeague CEO Jordi Bertomeu, in an interview with Roberto De Ponti of Corriere della Sera, said he doesn't agree with the decision to take the Final Four to Abu Dhabi but understands why the decision was made.
"No," Bertomeu stated. "I’m not against opening up to Middle Eastern markets—because everyone is heading in that direction now, and that’s where the money is—but look at what others are doing."
"Football goes there to play finals of minor tournaments, cups, or super cups. They don’t play the league finals there," he noted.
Bertomeu emphasized the importance of keeping the main European club basketball event in Europe, adding that the value of the Final Four isn’t just about business.
"Taking the EuroLeague Final Four there is very risky. From a business standpoint, it might be very positive, but the beauty and value of the Final Four isn’t just business—it’s the experience," emphasized the former CEO.
"The Final Four is a celebration. The fans create a unique atmosphere—even in the United States, they admire us for it. Taking the most decisive moment of the season far from where our fans, our clients, are is risky," Bertomeu concluded.
Why Final Four in Abu Dhabi doesn't make sense
