EuroLeague set for major franchise-style overhaul, including Maccabi Tel Aviv

EuroLeague is moving toward a dramatic structural change as it faces competition from a possible NBA-run European league. According to a report by Eurohoops, the competition’s 13 shareholders are expected to sign a new agreement on July 1, giving them long-term, effectively permanent licenses instead of temporary deals.

The 13 clubs are Maccabi Tel Aviv, Anadolu Efes, Baskonia, Barcelona, Fenerbahce, Milan, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, Bayern Munich, Zalgiris Kaunas, Villeurbanne, Real Madrid and CSKA Moscow, which is not currently playing because of the war. Under the new system, clubs would no longer receive licenses for one, three, five or even 10 years, but would instead hold franchise-style rights with no visible expiration date.

The goal is to give teams more financial security so they can invest with confidence that their place in the league is protected, attracting more investors and helping clubs grow under the competition’s umbrella. The current shareholder contracts reportedly include a buyout clause worth 10 million euros, but Eurohoops says that clause could be removed or increased significantly.

The franchise model, common in American sports, would also allow EuroLeague to sell licenses at prices reflecting its current value. Eurohoops says the change could boost profits by about 25 percent. The report also says a 30-team league is being considered for 2028 or 2029, with potential additions from major cities such as London, Rome and Berlin, while two spots would remain available through EuroCup promotion.