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After months of dispute over player transfers and alleged locked gym doors, Luxembourg's basketball authority has issued its verdict in the Vibball Echternach youth club case.
The Luxembourg Basketball Federation (FLBB) has issued a ruling regarding the contentious transfer of 39 player licences from Vibball Echternach to EastSide Pirates Berbourg and Arantia Larochette, according to RTL sources.
While compensation would typically apply in such transfers, the FLBB Tribunal determined Vibball's claim was invalid due to procedural errors.
Case background
The dispute originated in 2024 when Vibball's coach abruptly ceased training for the club's 150 youth players. As affected players joined other clubs, discussions emerged about requiring families to cover potential compensation payments to Vibball. The complexity of the case prompted the FLBB Tribunal to expedite its decision.
During Thursday's hour-long hearing, representatives from both Vibball and the receiving clubs presented arguments. EastSide Pirates – which absorbed 38 players – reportedly objected to transfer conditions, while Vibball sought €18,000 in compensation from the club.
FLBB Tribunal spokesperson Alphonse Berns suggested financial motives dominated the dispute, a claim Vibball coach Yldikò Vass strongly denied. Vass maintains she continues training Echternach youth at alternative venues, despite the club's official relocation to the International School sports hall.
Parents allege they received no advance notice of cancelled training sessions, leaving children stranded outside locked facilities and compelling them to switch clubs.
Vibball Echternach released an official statement addressing the matter on 27 July:
