Μake us preferred on Google The Hellenic Basketball Federation (EOK) is preparing for early elections in December as it faces a major crisis following allegations of match-fixing in Greek basketball and the resignation of former president Vangelis Liolios.
Angelos Papanikolaou has been appointed to replace Liolios, but the leadership change is expected to be temporary, with the federation moving toward a broader overhaul of its administration, according to ERTnews.
The developments come amid an investigation into an alleged match-manipulation network that has shaken Greek basketball and raised questions about the sport’s credibility.
Liolios’ resignation and the push for elections
Following Liolios’ resignation, the EOK board voted to appoint Papanikolaou as his successor. According to reports, the resignation came before a formal removal from office could take place pending a court ruling.
The new board subsequently met with Alternate Minister of Sports Giannis Vroutsis, who called for elections to be held as soon as possible.
Both sides expressed their desire to establish a new administration through a vote by the federation’s member clubs.
December 13 or 20 under consideration
Greek basketball is facing one of the most serious crises in its history following revelations about an alleged match-manipulation network and the pretrial detention of Vangelis Liolios, Petros Papapetrou, Ilias Koromilas and Giorgos Mavraganis.
Holding elections is seen as an essential first step toward restoring confidence in the sport and its governing body.
Under Greek sports legislation, elections cannot take place less than 45 days after they are formally announced. An extraordinary meeting of the EOK board is expected to finalize the next steps.
The leading dates under consideration are December 13 and December 20, which would allow the new administration to take office shortly before Christmas.
In-person or electronic voting?
Organizing the election presents logistical challenges, particularly regarding how member clubs will cast their ballots.
A total of 611 clubs participated in the 2021 EOK elections, in which Liolios won, while 775 took part in the 2024 election, which he also won.
It remains unclear whether the upcoming vote will take place in person or electronically. Electronic voting drew strong criticism and objections during the 2024 election.
The federation is expected to issue official announcements in the coming hours, setting out the timetable and details of the electoral process.
