Incident at EuroLeague Game: Anti-Semitic Remarks Directed at Israeli Team Owner

Game Details

The recent EuroLeague matchup on December 18, 2025, brought a disappointing halt to Hapoel Tel Aviv’s winning streak as they fell 93-82 to Panathinaikos in a challenging away game held in OAKA. However, the game was overshadowed by a troubling incident involving Hapoel Tel Aviv’s owner, Ofer Yanai.

Assault on Ofer Yanai

During the contest, Yanai was physically confronted on the court by a Panathinaikos supporter. Reports indicate that the fan shouted anti-Semitic remarks, specifically calling Yanai a “dirty Jew” while pointing at his kippah. This alarming behavior caused significant upheaval both within the immediate vicinity and among the international basketball community.

In response, Panathinaikos management acted swiftly to address the situation. The offending fan was removed from the arena and faced a lifetime ban from attending future games. Additionally, law enforcement was notified, leading to the fan’s arrest following the event.

Yanai’s Response

Despite being offered the option to remove his kippah or Hapoel Tel Aviv scarf in light of the incident, Yanai chose to stand firm in his beliefs. He expressed gratitude to Panathinaikos management for their prompt and decisive reaction. Yanai stated, “There is no place for anti-Semitism in sports,” highlighting the importance of addressing discrimination in all forms.

Conclusion

The incident has sparked discussions regarding the presence of racism and anti-Semitism in sports, reminding fans and organizations of the need for vigilance against hate. The swift actions taken by Panathinaikos management serve as a statement that such behavior will not be tolerated.

For those interested in attending future games or events, consider booking your tickets and ensuring you secure your spot at the next significant encounter in the world of sports. Check available tickets for shows and games across Europe.