Real Madrid Allows Fans Amidst Tight Security

Real Madrid has announced that around 8,000 season ticket holders will be allowed to attend their upcoming EuroLeague Playoffs home games against Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv. This significant decision follows considerable pressure from fan groups advocating for a full arena, similar to other European matches.

However, fan attendance will be subject to stringent security protocols. Access is exclusively for season ticket holders who must present government-issued identification. Transferable tickets will require the new attendee's ID and a formal transfer document. VIP box guests will also undergo similar ID checks. Visiting fans are strictly prohibited from attending, and general ticket sales will not occur.

To ensure a secure environment, 450 police officers will be deployed, supported by increased private security. The front rows of the Movistar Arena will remain empty. Authorities have restricted fan activities solely to the arena to prevent any external incidents. Games 1 and 2 are scheduled for next Wednesday and Friday at the home venue.

Should the series require further games, Games 3 and 4 will be relocated to Botevgrad, Bulgaria. Hapoel IBI, who has primarily used the 8,888 Arena in Sofia, must move due to scheduled cultural events. This best-of-five series is a crucial matchup for a spot in the EuroLeague Final Four Athens.