He was detained within the scope of match-fixing investigation: The president of the Greek Basketball Federation resigned

NEWS CENTER / According to Greek media Ethnos, Vangelis Liolios informed the investigator that he would stop all his basketball-related activities until the legal process is completed. This step also led to him resigning as president of the European Economic Community, in order not to leave sports behind while the case was pending.

According to the information made public so far, the investigation concerns allegations of bribing and offering benefits to referees, players and club officials in order to influence the course or outcome of basketball matches.

Liolios, who appeared at the hearing on Sunday, announced at the beginning of his apology speech his decision to withdraw from his duties in Greek basketball until the case is resolved. "I am stepping down from my position so that basketball can continue to function," he reportedly said in a released statement.

49 MATCHES UNDER REVIEW

Authorities are examining 49 matches played between 2016 and 2026, covering a range of competitions from professional and sub-national leagues to youth and school championships.

Prosecutors say the alleged crimes were partly aimed at manipulating matches that could take place in betting markets in Greece and abroad.

The judicial process is expected to continue on Monday; International referee Vasso Tsaroucha, EOK referee advisor Ilias Koromilas and former referee and Central Referee Board member Tasos Piloidis are scheduled to testify.

FORMER REFEREE WAS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

One of the most important developments in the case was the decision to detain former referee Petros Papapetrou after his statement on Friday.