The decision to revoke Prometheus’s license for the 2025/26 and the fine imposed on the club for irregularities in the Patras team’s shareholder registry. In fact, he takes a jab at the motives of those who made these decisions, while making it clear that there is no legal impediment to serving as president of the EOK while also being a shareholder or a member of the management of a professional basketball club.

Here is Vangelis Liolios’ statement in full: “It would be a tragedy if, by invoking a mere committee (which I respect as an institution), whose members were nominated by the competent Deputy Minister of Sports, some people believe that through arbitrary and illegal decisions made by this committee, they will blackmail or intimidate me.

A committee in which, unfortunately, some members have seized the opportunity to establish their credentials in order to build a political career in the upcoming elections. Very soon, all those involved will be held accountable before the courts. At this moment, there are far more serious issues facing Greek basketball. Everything and everyone in due time…

Furthermore, to keep the sports fans informed and to prevent the misinformation that has been circulating for some time now—spread by the usual suspects—the following must be emphasized: As President of the Federation, I have the legal right to be a shareholder or even a member of the board of directors of any professional basketball club I choose. There is absolutely no conflict of interest or legal impediment under the Sports Law. Personally, I did not wish to do so because that was my personal choice. If at some point in the future I wish to do so, it is entirely up to me. ABSOLUTELY NO ONE is in a position to force me to do so or to deny me this right.”

What the decision means

These penalties imposed by the EEA can only be appealed to the Administrative Court of Appeals, as they are state penalties issued by the Ministry of Sports. It is now clearly up to Greek basketball to make decisions.

*photo source: fiba.basketball