sports
Dimitris Giannakopoulos: “I Hear Rumors, Athens Ready for Historic and Biggest Spectacle Ever Seen in Basketball”
Ahead of the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four in Athens, speculation about the condition of the “Telekom Arena” and its suitability for hosting the final tournament has resurfaced. In response, Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos has firmly denied all claims of technical problems.

TL;DR
- Dimitris Giannakopoulos, owner of Panathinaikos, denies rumors about technical problems with the "Telekom Arena" for the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four in Athens.
- He stated that tens of millions of private funds have been invested in renovating the 30-year-old venue.
- Giannakopoulos also confirmed that Panathinaikos sent materials to the EuroLeague about controversial refereeing from the match against Valencia, but no response has been received.
- He emphasized the need for transparency and the elimination of irregularities in uncertain matches.
- Giannakopoulos advised the team to remain focused on the court and mentioned that the club was treated fairly in Valencia.