Events of the European Men’s Basketball Championship could bring Riga and Latvia an economic boost of up to 60 million euros, Riga Mayor Viesturs Kleinbergs (P) said at a press conference.
The mayor emphasized that such events are strategically important for Latvia’s capital. In his view, Riga is well-prepared, and the most important thing now is to enjoy the basketball festivities.
Kleinbergs called on residents to be understanding and mindful that a large number of fans will arrive in Riga, leading to more crowds both on the streets and in cafés.
“Let’s be kind, let’s welcome the basketball fans, and let’s tell them what else they can see in Riga besides basketball, so that they would want to return here as tourists,” said Kleinbergs.
Riga Vice Mayor Vilnis Ķirsis (JV) added that through targeted efforts Riga has secured its place on the world map of major sporting events. He invited residents and visitors to explore Latvia’s Basketball Hall of Fame, which will be set up next to the Freedom Monument.
“We have a remarkable history, starting from our very first European championship title,” said Ķirsis, stressing that hosting the championship in Latvia will also serve as an additional motivation for young athletes.
As reported, the European Championship final tournament will feature 24 teams in four groups, playing in Riga, Tampere, Katowice, and Limassol at the end of August and beginning of September. The top four teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage in Riga, where the medalists will be determined in the first half of September.
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