Preparations for hosting a group of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 in Limassol are progressing exceptionally well, according to the President of the Cyprus Basketball Federation, Mr. Andreas Mouzourides. Speaking to “Entrepreneurial Limassol”, he stated that an effective Organizing Committee has been formed to ensure full compliance with FIBA's demanding specifications. Agreements regarding team accommodation and transportation have already been finalized.
Mr. Mouzourides emphasized that the Federation enjoys decisive support from the state and local authorities, as evidenced by the renovation works at the "Spyros Kyprianou" stadium, which will host the group games. The renovation works are advancing rapidly. The Federation President highlighted that the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 is the largest sporting event ever hosted in Cyprus and the second most important basketball tournament in the world, after the Basketball World Cup. “All eyes will be on Limassol during that period, and it’s up to us to present the right image,” he said.
Regarding the stadium renovation, Mr. Mouzourides mentioned that the work began in August 2024 and includes replacing the playing court, upgrading sports equipment (such as hoops and scoreboards), constructing new access points, increasing seating capacity, and fully renovating the electrical installations. The stadium is expected to be ready by July 2025, allowing time for testing and further preparations.
He noted that the renovation will provide long-term benefits, extending the stadium's lifespan by 20–30 years. At the same time, he expressed the Federation’s desire to bid for future international tournaments, leveraging the upgraded facilities and the expertise gained. He added that in the summer of 2025, Cyprus will prove its ability to host major sporting events. With the legacy of the “Spyros Kyprianou” Stadium, it will be possible to attract other significant tournaments in the future, beyond basketball.
Mr. Mouzourides announced that ticket sales have already begun, with two ticket packages currently available for games involving the Cyprus and Greece national teams. “Many people have already secured their tickets, with the greatest interest shown in the games featuring the Greek national team, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and other Greek superstars,” he said. He added that once Greece secures its qualification in February, the campaign to promote tickets to the Greek market will intensify. The draw for the group on March 27, 2025, will also determine which other four countries will join Cyprus’ group, allowing targeted campaigns to attract fans from those nations. Limassol’s appeal as one of the most attractive host cities in recent years will also play a significant role in drawing fans.
Regarding the number of visitors the event will bring to Cyprus, Mr. Mouzourides said that this will become clearer once all six teams in the group are announced. However, he noted that with Greece playing five games over the course of a week, a significant presence of Greek fans is expected. Based on experience from previous FIBA EuroBasket tournaments, host cities typically attract thousands of fans and enjoy numerous benefits, including economic gains and exposure.
He also cited a study by EY, estimating the economic benefits of the tournament for Cyprus at €12.5–17 million. He pointed out that a large portion of the expenses for the tournament, such as the renovation of the “Spyros Kyprianou” Stadium, as well as costs for accommodation, dining, and transportation, will remain within the Cypriot economy and society. Finally, Mr. Mouzourides highlighted the indirect benefits arising from the country’s exposure. “A country capable of hosting one of the world’s largest sporting events demonstrates vitality and proves it’s worth visiting and investing in. This is the great legacy of FIBA EuroBasket 2025 for Cyprus!” he concluded.
