PARIS: Euroleague on Saturday abandoned its Under-18 qualifying tournament in Abu Dhabi for safety reasons as Iranian missiles hit the Gulf states.
The decision follows American and Israeli strikes on Iran and waves of retaliatory attacks some of which targeted US Gulf allies, including the United Arab Emirates.
“In light of the current situation in the region, this decision has been made to guarantee the safety and security of all participants,” said a brief statement from Euroleague, which organizes Europe’s most important club basketball competition.
“After careful evaluation and ongoing consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders, it was determined that canceling the event is the most responsible course of action at this time.”
The eight-team competition was called off during the second quarter of the opening match between Monaco and Aris Thessaloniki.
