By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Can this reported decision translate to European basketball? As Eurohoops had reported last year, the arguments used by the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague are pretty similar to this case.
Dutch Olympic speed skaters Mark Tuitert and Niels Kerstholt raised grievances after being put off competing in lucrative Ice Derby events run by a South Korean company by ISU’s (the international skating federation) threats of a lifetime ban. EuroLeague also turned to EU committee to confirm that its club, players and referees will not suffer any sanctions by FIBA in the future.
According to the “Reuters” exclusive report, “the European Commission’s move could impact other sports and become as important a milestone as the landmark 1995 court ruling involving Belgian football player Jean-Marc Bosman, which paved the way for the free movement of players in the EU. The ruling could set a precedent that would make it easier for unofficial and ‘breakaway’ events and competitions set up without the approval of a sports’ governing body”.
Turkish Airlines EuroLeague can end up being such a “breakaway” league with no connection to FIBA. According to “Reuters: “The Commission ruling, which is expected by the end of November or early December, is likely to order the International Skating Union (ISU) to amend its system of penalties, which include lifetime bans for competing in unauthorized events”.