By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Offenders not yet identified attacked the taxi carrying referees Luigi Lamonica, Damir Javor and Emin Mogulkoc after the EuroLeague match between Panathinaikos and Barcelona that took place in Athens Friday (21/2). Well-experienced official Lamonica suffered injuries in his chin and hand and had to go to a hospital for treatment, before returning to his hotel, Eurohoops sources confirm.
Greek police are currently investigating the incident.
“Idiots are everywhere. I am fine,” Lamonica clarified via Gazzetta dello Sport upon returning to Italy, “I’ve been injured in the chin and hand, but no problem, I’m ready to officiate the next game”.
The three referees were making their way back to the hotel after the game, together with EuroLeague official and former referee Nikos Pitsilikas. Approximately five kilometers away from OAKA, the perpetrators damaged the vehicle ensuing their attack on the passengers.
“They punched through the left rear window,” referee Mogulkoc told Tivibu Spor describing the incident, “Glass pieces hit Lamonica’s face. We went to the hospital because of his injuries.”
“We have no idea who the attackers were,” he added, “There was no license plate on their motorcycle and they were wearing masks.”
Panathinaikos released an announcement on the incident, nothing that the club provided every possible assistance to the referees. “We condemn any form of violence and declare that we will help in every effort against it.”