REAL MADRID’S Santiago Bernabeu stadium is set to host the EuroBasket opener in 2029.
EuroBasket is Europe’s largest international basketball competition.
Spain are among the continent’s most successful basketball nations and are the reigning EuroBasket champions.
World basketball governing body Fiba has announced that Spain are among four countries to host the 2029 edition.
Madrid’s 80,000-seater Bernabeu is set to host the opening game of the tournament, likely to be Spain against a leading contender.
The curtain-raiser could set a new Fiba attendance record, with the largest attendance currently standing at 38,115, set at Philippine Arena two years ago.
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Real Madrid’s iconic home has undergone substantial renovations in recent years – now featuring a retractable roof and huge LED screens.
In addition to the curtain raiser, final phase games are also set to take place in Spain.
Other games in Madrid are to be held at the 16,000-seater Movistar Arena.
In addition to the Spanish capital – Athens, Tallinn and Ljubljana will also host games.
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Fiba Europe president Jorge Garbajosa said: “We are excited to bring FIBA EuroBasket 2029 to some of Europe’s prime basketball destinations, each with a strong basketball culture and a clear commitment to delivering an outstanding event.
“We look forward to working closely with the host countries to ensure a successful and memorable tournament for teams, fans, and partners alike.”
Fiba chief Kamil Novak added: “The interest our National Federations have shown in organising this event speaks to the growing profile and prestige of Fiba EuroBasket.
“We thank all the bidders for their outstanding proposals and extend our best wishes to the four hosts as they begin their journey toward delivering a fantastic tournament.”
This summer’s EuroBasket is set to take place in Cyprus, Finland, Latvia, and Poland.
The tournament will run between August 27 and September 14 – and could feature the likes of Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
