EuroLeague CEO Approves Hapoel Jerusalem's Bid for Permanent License

Hapoel Jerusalem has advanced to the next stage in its bid to secure a permanent license in the EuroLeague, a significant step towards potentially joining the elite European basketball competition. EuroLeague CEO Dejan Bodiroga officially informed the club that its proposal met the initial requirements and has passed the screening phase.

This development comes after club owner Matan Adelson submitted a binding offer as part of the EuroLeague's planned expansion to 24 teams by the 2027/28 season. Adelson and his team reportedly engaged directly with Bodiroga, conducted extensive due diligence, and presented a financially robust offer, which has now received official acknowledgment from the league's management.

The club's advancement is seen as a major public relations victory, countering earlier reports that suggested Hapoel Jerusalem might be overlooked. The team stated its commitment to continuing efforts to become a permanent member of the EuroLeague.

The EuroLeague is undergoing a structural overhaul, aiming to include 24 teams by 2027/28, with 21 expected to hold long-term permanent licenses that include profit-sharing. Alongside the existing 13 shareholders, including Maccabi Tel Aviv, several clubs, such as Hapoel Tel Aviv, are competing for the remaining eight slots. The total value of these franchise packages is estimated at around 700 million euros, with projected investments exceeding 3.2 billion euros over the next five years.

The final decision on which teams will receive permanent licenses will be made by the EuroLeague's board of directors at the end of September 2026.