Real Madrid announced on Monday that their upcoming EuroLeague basketball game against Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv will be played behind closed doors, citing security concerns. The decision marks the latest disruption to Spanish sport linked to Israeli participation amid heightened tensions surrounding the war in Gaza.
The match is scheduled to take place on Thursday at Madrid’s Movistar Arena, but fans will not be permitted to attend. Real Madrid did not provide detailed information on the specific nature of the security concerns, saying only that the decision was taken in coordination with relevant authorities to ensure safety.
The announcement comes as more than 250 organisations have called for the game to be suspended entirely, arguing that Israeli teams should not compete internationally while Israel’s military operations in Gaza continue. Protest organisers have planned a rally outside the Movistar Arena on the day of the match, adding to concerns about crowd control and public safety.
EuroLeague Basketball has not indicated that the fixture itself will be cancelled, and the competition has continued to stage games involving Israeli teams this season, sometimes under heightened security or at neutral venues. Similar measures, including restricted attendance and increased policing, have been implemented elsewhere in Europe in response to protests and security assessments.
For Real Madrid, the closed-doors decision reflects the difficult position sports organisations face when global political conflicts intersect with international competitions. While clubs and leagues typically stress political neutrality, critics argue that sport cannot be separated from broader ethical and humanitarian issues.
Fans holding tickets for the game are expected to receive guidance on refunds or exchanges, though the club has not yet released specific details. Real Madrid said further information would be shared through official channels.
The situation underscores how the Gaza conflict continues to ripple beyond politics and diplomacy, affecting cultural and sporting events across Europe. As authorities prepare for Thursday’s fixture, the focus remains on maintaining security while navigating growing pressure from activist groups and divided public opinion.
