EuroLeague Won't Return to Israel in 2026, Say Israeli Basketball Officials

Senior figures in Israeli basketball have informed C14 that the EuroLeague is not expected to resume hosting games in Israel in 2026 or early 2027. Despite significant efforts by Israeli clubs, including a joint push by Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv, the league's management is reportedly disinclined to approve the return of games at this time.

This decision means that Israeli teams will continue to host their home games in neutral venues abroad. This news comes as a blow to basketball fans in Israel and to the Israeli representatives in Europe's premier basketball competition. The ongoing inability to host games in Tel Aviv follows previous reports about the EuroLeague's complicated stance towards Israeli clubs.

Earlier, the EuroLeague faced criticism and anger for holding its new "Super Cup" tournament in Abu Dhabi, while Israel remained unable to host official games. This decision to stage a prestigious event in the UAE, while barring games in Israel, caused considerable frustration among fans and club managements.

While Hapoel Jerusalem is currently negotiating with the league for a long-term franchise license, the broader Israeli request to host games has repeatedly been met with resistance. The updated assessment that the EuroLeague will not return to Israel until at least mid-2026/27 presents a substantial economic, professional, and logistical challenge for Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv, who will need to continue playing in European capitals next season.