In a decisive move, Virtual Euroleague has announced the termination of its sponsorship deal with Overtime HK Basketball, citing a series of antisemitic speeches, comments, and posts attributed to individuals associated with the organization. Overtime HK, owned by Liaqat Ali, a basketball skills coach residing in Hong Kong, has been a small part-time sponsor of the league for several years.
"We want to make it unequivocally clear that there is no place for political hate speech or propaganda within our esports league," stated a spokesperson for Virtual Euroleague.
Liaqat Ali, who also managed U-BT Cluj in the Virtual EuroCup, will be replaced by a new user from the league's waiting list, with the team's wildcard being reassigned accordingly.
While Overtime HK had previously sponsored the Cup, their name will no longer be associated with the event, and the league will not be receiving the sponsored funds earmarked for the prize money. In light of this development, Virtual Euroleague is appealing for small donations to help sustain the prize pool for upcoming events.
The league's decision underscores its commitment to promoting inclusivity and combating discrimination within the esports community.