EuroLeague Officials Union dismisses attempted bribery claims as false and malicious / News - Basketnews.com

Union of EuroLeague Basketball Officials (UEBO) rejects the attempted bribery accusations made by former referee Mykola Ambrosov against Greek referee Ilias Koromilas and Ukrainian referee Boris Ryzhyk, stating the claims are completely false and motivated by personal interests to harm EuroLeague and UEBO members, while the accused refs vehemently deny the baseless allegations and plan legal action.

Credit: Panagiotis Moschandreou/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images Credit Panagiotis Moschandreou/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images

Following the recent complaints made public by former referee Mykola Ambrosov, accusing two members of the Union of EuroLeague Basketball Officials (UEBO) of attempted bribery during the EuroCup final between UNCIS Kazan and AS Monaco in 2021, UEBO clarified its position on the matter.

Announcement in detail, via SDNA:

1. UEBO has full confidence in the ethics of its current members.

2. The allegations made by Mr. Ambrosov appear to be completely false and seem to stem from personal motives, aiming to harm EuroLeague, UEBO members, and the accused referees.

3. Our impression is based on several straightforward facts:

Firstly, the allegations were made two years after the relevant game and were initially publicized through the media rather than following the proper channels. This raises questions about the timing and approach, especially considering the obligation of UEBO members to promptly report any suspicious activities following EuroLeague Basketball (EB) guidelines. Secondly, it is important to note that these accusations come from someone who has been previously accused and convicted by the FBU (Ukrainian Basketball Federation) of bribery, receiving money from subordinates, and forging an official document's signature. Third, it is hard to ignore the coincidence that these claims emerged shortly after Mr. Ambrosov's request to return to refereeing EB games was denied by EB.

4. UEBO fully respects EB's decision to conduct an official investigation into this case, prioritizing the protection of the game's integrity and addressing any potential concerns surrounding referees' work, which is of utmost importance.

5. UEBO remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard the professionalism, integrity, and fairness of its members. The organization is willing to cooperate in any necessary actions to dispel suspicions and address complaints.

Ilias Koromilas, one of the accused referees, responded to the baseless allegations as follows:

"I want to confirm that these accusations against me are entirely meritless and seem to be driven by malicious intentions to tarnish my reputation and honor, which are integral to my identity as an international referee. Consequently, I have taken immediate action by involving my lawyer to pursue legal measures against the individual who has already been banned from participating in any basketball activities in Ukraine, as communicated by UEBO to all European referees.

Moreover, I have instructed my attorney to take the necessary steps to prevent the uncritical dissemination of these false statements in the media or on websites without prior verification. Throughout my professional life, truth has been my guiding principle, and I firmly believe that it will prevail.

Preserving the integrity of my character as an international referee is paramount to me, and I am steadfast in upholding the highest ethical standards in my profession. I am grateful for the support I have received from my colleagues and the basketball community, and I am determined to defend my good name against such groundless allegations. I will maintain an unshakable belief in the truth during these challenging circumstances."

Boris Ryzhyk, the other referee accused by Mr. Ambrosov, also responded to the allegations:

"I want everyone to know that the accusations against me are completely baseless and false. It is deeply troubling to see my name associated with such claims. I will take immediate legal action against the individual who has already been banned for three years, until September 2024, due to involvement in corrupt arbitration in Ukraine and subsequently creating a fake letter with forged signatures from the Ukrainian Basketball Federation, resulting in a lifetime ban from basketball activities by the Federation.

I am fully dedicated to the sport of basketball and its values, and I will wholeheartedly cooperate with the appropriate authorities in their efforts to uncover the truth. I appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate through this process."

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