The president of the Italian basketball team Trapani Shark, Valerio Antonini, has announced he will formally request that the Basketball Champions League (BCL) exclude all Israeli teams from the competition. This statement comes as his team prepares for its first season in the league, where they are scheduled to play against the Israeli side Bnei PenLink Herzliya in the group stage.
🗣️ A Strong Stance on the Conflict
During a live social media session, Valerio Antonini explained his position. He referenced the ongoing conflict, which he described in very strong terms as a “genocide.” He stated that his team could not, in good conscience, compete against or shake hands with players representing a country that he believes is committing such acts.
⚖️ Drawing a Parallel with Russian Teams
Antonini drew a comparison to the existing ban on Russian teams in European competitions. He argued that if Russian teams are disqualified due to the conflict in Ukraine, then the same principle should apply to Israeli teams. “This is a decision that can no longer be postponed,” he added, confirming he would personally sign a document with this formal request for the BCL.
🏀 Impact on the Upcoming Season
Trapani Shark is set to compete in Group D of the BCL, alongside Bnei PenLink Herzliya, Spanish club La Laguna Tenerife, and Turkish team Tofas. According to the tournament rules, the top team from the group advances directly to the Round of 16, while the second and third-place teams will enter a play-in series. Antonini’s request, if considered, could significantly alter the group’s schedule and competitive balance.
