Spanish basketball clubs Manresa and Tenerife will host Israeli teams this week in European competition, but both matches will be played behind closed doors.
Manresa, which faces Hapoel Jerusalem in the EuroCup on Wednesday at 9:45 p.m., and Tenerife, which will host Bnei Herzliya in the FIBA Champions League on Tuesday at 10 p.m., issued a joint statement Sunday announcing the decision.
“We completely reject any form of violence or violation of human rights in any context,” the clubs said in their statement, explaining why they chose to proceed with the games. “Teams cannot unilaterally decide not to play matches in the competitions in which they are registered, as such actions could constitute a breach of contract and risk disciplinary and financial penalties, as well as disqualification from the tournaments.”
The statement continued: “After extensive consultations with the relevant authorities, sports organizations, and security forces, and based on the information and recommendations received, both clubs have decided that the games will be held behind closed doors. This decision was made to ensure the safety of everyone involved and the proper conduct of the games, while maintaining our contractual obligations.”
Late last month, the Manresa city council called for the cancellation of the game against Hapoel Jerusalem, claiming that holding the match would “whitewash Israel’s actions against the Palestinian people.”