[ELIAS]

ETTU: 1. FC Saarbrücken-Tischtennis will host the first ever Champions League Final 4 in 2024

The European Table Tennis Union (ETTU) has announced the launch of the Champions League Men Final 4 for this season. After a competitive tender process, the ETTU Executive Board has awarded the event to the reigning champion, 1. FC Saarbrücken TT.

With the cooperation of the regional ministry of sports the idea of a Final 4 tournament in Saarbrücken will become a reality. The event is scheduled to take place on the last weekend of March in 2024 (30th and 31st of March).

Unlike the previous knockout stages, which were played in home and away matches, the Final 4 will be held over a single weekend and in one location. This format aims to create an exciting event featuring high-level table tennis, a large crowd, and the four best teams in Europe.

The chosen venue for the Final 4 tournament is the Saarlandhalle in Saarbrücken, which has previously hosted the Europe Top 12 event in 2003 and the Men's World Cup in 2016.

ETTU Acting President Pedro MOURA: *We are thrilled and honoured to announce that Saarbrücken has been awarded the privilege of hosting the first ever Table Tennis Champions League Men Final 4. This momentous occasion is a testament to the dedication and passion that local club FC Saarbrücken TT has demonstrated in promoting the sport of table tennis.

The decision to change format of Table Tennis Champions League man is part of ETTU 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, having the objective of developing the system and make it more attractive and rewarding for the clubs and the players.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Saarland, an essential partner to turn this dreamed event a reality.

We are absolutely sure Saarbrücken will be an exceptional host, offering outstanding facilities, a vibrant atmosphere, and a warm welcome to all participants and spectators."

Reinhold JOST, Saarland's Minister of Sports: *The Men's Champions League Final Four is part of our strategy to bring high class sports event to our region before the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris. Saarland is a region of world class sports and the Final Four together with the European Championships in Badminton and the athletic festival in Rehlingen proves this!."

Head of Sports, 1. FC Saarbrücken TT Erwin BERG,: *I am very happy that such a prestigious event was awarded to our region. After the Europe Top 12 and the World Cup the venue will host its third big table tennis competition, so we know that it is a good place to host such an event. Our whole club will try to organize a perfect event with many spectators to create an amazing atmosphere.

As the reigning champion it is our main goal to qualify for this event and try to defend the title in front of our home crowd!"