His opposition to a banner for Cyprus that was raised at his match yesterday Panathinaikou with Maccabi in Megalonis for the “Neofytos Handriotis” tournament, expressed Ergin Ataman with his written statement on Instagram. “50 years of illegal occupation, no one forgets“, said the banner that had the occupied side of Cyprus covered in blood.
The Turkish coach of the European champions stated that he also expressed his dissatisfaction during the match, while he emphasized that political messages cannot be placed in the stadiums and thanked the rest of the audience who, in the vast majority, welcomed him with love.
The Ataman’s statement in detail:
“I am Ergin Ataman and as the coach of Panathinaikos in the last legendary season of the team, I fervently supported the tournament in Cyprus, as I believed it would contribute to friendship and peace, and I came here with very positive feelings.
On the first day we were warmly welcomed at the airport. The love I saw in people’s eyes made me very happy. Signing autographs I met hundreds of basketball friends. This atmosphere of friendship and peace was very promising for all of us.
However, yesterday in the stadium, where sportsmanship and friendship should prevail, a political banner was put up by a small group of fans and I think it was not in keeping with the hospitality we had. I expressed my reaction to this situation in the strongest possible way to draw attention.
Stadiums are places of friendship and peace, not politics. I know that these people who raised this banner will not affect the feelings of thousands of people who have shown me and my team love since the first day we have been here. There will always be a special bond between us.
So no matter what happens, my love for true basketball fans will remain the same. Because what brings us closer is the love for basketball. I believe that sport and friendship will always win”.
Source: Sport Fm
I am currently a news writer for News Bulletin247 where I mostly cover sports news. I have always been interested in writing and it is something I am very passionate about. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.
