With a steadfast commitment to supporting sport and a continued contribution to initiatives of high social and national impact, EKO Cyprus, a subsidiary of the HELLENiQ ENERGY Group, is proud to announce it will be the Gold Sponsor of Cyprus’ national basketball teams, as well as Event Sponsor of the major upcoming tournament to be hosted in the country — the men’s FIBA EuroBasket 2025.

The dual focus of the company’s sports strategy, which includes strengthening of national representation and support of international tournaments with long-term value for the country, was presented at a special event held on May 28, 2025 at the Royal Hall. The event was co-organised by EKO Cyprus, HELLENiQ ENERGY and the Cyprus Basketball Federation. President Nikos Christodoulides, along with representatives from the government, business community and sports sector, were in attendance.

During the event, the men’s national basketball team’s new kit was officially unveiled — a jersey symbolising the collective identity and national pride that unites athletes and supporters under one flag.

EKO Cyprus’ sponsorship supports all national basketball teams — men’s and women’s Under-16 and Under-18 — reaffirming the company’s enduring commitment to sport and strengthening Cyprus’ international presence. This represents a substantial investment in both the present and future of the island’s sport.

FIBA EuroBasket 2025, to take place at Limassol’s newly-upgraded “Spyros Kyprianou” arena, over August 28-September 4, 2025, is expected to deliver multiple benefits for the country. It will elevate Cyprus’ international profile and attract sports tourism, while the upgraded infrastructure will provide a lasting legacy for society and sport alike.

President Christodoulides underlined the significance of the tournament as a vehicle for enhancing Cyprus’ international presence, and as a driver of social and developmental progress. “Our state’s investment and financial support for the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 stems from our belief in it as an investment in the younger generation,” he noted.

“This initiative not only enhances our country’s image abroad, but also creates new opportunities for sport, encourages youth participation and helps our young people face today’s immense challenges. It also strengthens our national sporting identity on the international stage. Moreover, the expected arrival of tens of thousands of visitors to Limassol and to the country at large will be a major boost for local communities, businesses and tourism.”

Andreas Shiamishis, CEO of HELLENiQ ENERGY Group, spoke of the Group’s strategic role in sports and its commitment to supporting initiatives with meaningful social impact. “Through EKO Cyprus, we will proudly support the efforts of all our athletes, both male and female, to distinguish themselves at major international events,” he said.

“This is a significant investment in the present and future of Cypriot sport. The presence of the EKO logo on the National Team jerseys signals our strong commitment to supporting sport, Cypriot basketball and every effort to promote our country abroad. As a company, we will continually support this drive to showcase Cyprus. In this context, we are proud to be the Event Sponsor of the men’s FIBA EuroBasket 2025, which is the most prominent sporting event the country has ever hosted.”

For his part, Andreas Mouzourides, President of the Cyprus Basketball Federation, highlighted the upgrade of Spyros Kyprianou stadium and the importance of EKO Cyprus’ and HELLENiQ ENERGY Group’s new partnership in terms of the island’s national teams. “The upgrade of the Spyros Kyprianou arena is a landmark development that opens a new chapter for sport in Cyprus, made possible thanks to the support of the government, the President and the Ministry of Transport and Minister Alexis Vafeades,” he pointed out.

“Its new form not only serves the needs of EuroBasket 2025, but is also a valuable legacy for the future of Cypriot sport. At the same time, our partnership with EKO Cyprus and the HELLENiQ ENERGY Group is of great significance as it offers support at all levels — from the national teams and their day-to-day preparation to the delivery of the most historic tournament we have ever undertaken. We thank them sincerely for sharing our vision.”

Mark Klerides, President of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Organising Committee, also hailed the partnership. “The efforts of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Organising Committee would not be possible without the backing of a strong network of corporate sponsors,” he observed. “Today, we welcome a new teammate: one of the most prominent energy groups in southeastern Europe — HELLENiQ ENERGY and its subsidiary, EKO Cyprus. With a strong sense of corporate social responsibility, they are investing in and supporting this event both financially and practically. Their contribution makes us truly grateful, and we rightly regard them as benefactors of European basketball.”

Giorgos Grigoras, CEO of EKO Cyprus, emphasised the company’s participation as Event Sponsor of EuroBasket 2025 and Gold Sponsor of the National Basketball Teams, as well as EKO’s ongoing support for international sports events, such as the EKO International Athletic Meeting.

“Our role as Gold Sponsor of the National Teams and Event Sponsor of EuroBasket 2025 is a great honour and responsibility for EKO Cyprus, and a continuation of our longstanding commitment to supporting sport and our country on the international stage,” he said.

With unwavering belief in the values of fair play, EKO Cyprus continues to invest consistently in strategic partnerships that strengthen Cyprus’ standing on the global sporting map, while contributing meaningfully to broader societal progress.

About EKO CYPRUS LIMITED

EKO CYPRUS LIMITED is a wholly owned subsidiary of HELLENiQ ENERGY. The company is active in the import, storage, distribution and marketing of liquid fuels, lubricants and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), both bulk and bottled, serving commercial and industrial customers. EKO CYPRUS LIMITED operates the country’s leading retail fuel network. The company is also responsible for the relocation of petroleum and LPG facilities from the coastal area of Larnaca to Vasilikos, a project which, upon full development, will exceed €50 million in investment. EKO CYPRUS LIMITED also plays a vital role in the local labour market, with more than 1,500 individuals employed directly or indirectly by the company and its associated businesses and branded stations.

About HELLENiQ ENERGY

HELLENiQ ENERGY is a leading integrated energy group in Southeastern Europe. Originally founded as HELLENIC PETROLEUM in 1998, the company operates in six countries and has a portfolio spanning the full energy value chain.

HELLENiQ ENERGY is driving energy transformation across its markets by embracing innovation and launching new initiatives. Its strategic objective is to become the leading provider of low-carbon energy solutions, with a target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

The Group is active in energy production, supply and trading, with an increasing focus on cleaner forms of energy and Renewable Energy Sources. Its diversified portfolio includes refining, supply and marketing of liquid fuels and petrochemical products, hydrocarbon exploration and production, and fuel marketing, while it is also expanding rapidly in renewables. In addition, the company has a notable presence in power generation.

HELLENiQ ENERGY places people at the heart of its business strategy, with the provision of long-term access to sustainable energy for all as its top priority. As a key investor, employer and engaged member of society, the company has a significant socio-economic footprint in all countries in which it operates and aspires to be a consistently reliable social partner.

www.helleniqenergy.gr

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