By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The foundations for a landmark sporting event were strengthened in Athens this week during a highly productive meeting between Dimitris Fragakis, chairman of the organizing committee for the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four Athens, presented by Etihad, and Euroleague Basketball president Dejan Bodiroga. The two leaders met in an exceptionally positive atmosphere, taking advantage of Bodiroga’s brief trip to the Greek capital from Belgrade, before attending the Delphi Economic Forum. This informal session allowed the heads to synchronize their vision as Athens prepares to host Europe’s premier basketball showcase with unprecedented ambition.
During the discussions, Fragakis provided a comprehensive briefing on the Greek government’s progress, emphasizing that the local organizing committee is operating with the consistency required to deliver a high-specification tournament. The leaders examined all critical issues in depth as they head into the final stretch before the opening Final Four tip-off on May 22.
Central to the meeting was the development of the Fan Zone at the Zappeion Megaron, designed to be a dynamic, interactive hub for tens of thousands of international visitors, offering a rich program of events that extends the basketball experience far beyond the Telekom Center Athens.
Both presidents focused on the strategic promotion of the Attica region as a world-class destination. Through targeted collaborations between the Region of Attica and Euroleague Basketball, the event aims to serve as a powerful catalyst for enhancing Greece’s international profile.
The leaders also finalized hospitality protocols for high-ranking officials and global dignitaries, ensuring that legendary Greek hospitality remains a hallmark of the high-level experience.