EuroLeague Moves Toward Permanent Franchise Model Including Maccabi Tel Aviv

EuroLeague is preparing a major structural change that would lock in its 13 current shareholders for the long term, according to a report by Eurohoops. The move comes as the NBA is reportedly planning to launch its own European league and try to attract the continent’s top clubs.

The league has already decided to shift from temporary multi-year licenses to a franchise system, and the 13 shareholders are expected to sign the new agreement on July 1. The listed shareholders are Maccabi Tel Aviv, Anadolu Efes, Baskonia, Barcelona, Fenerbahce, Milano, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, Bayern Munich, Zalgiris Kaunas, Villeurbanne, Real Madrid and CSKA Moscow, which is not currently playing because of the war.

Under the new model, clubs would hold a permanent license instead of deals lasting one, three, five or even 10 years. The aim is to give teams greater financial certainty, encourage investment, and allow clubs to develop with a more stable future in the competition. The current shareholder contracts include a 10 million euro exit clause, and Eurohoops reports that this buyout provision is expected to be removed or increased significantly.

The report says the franchise model could also raise EuroLeague’s valuation, with Eurohoops forecasting a 25% jump in profits. It adds that the league is considering expansion to 30 teams in 2028 or 2029, with possible new clubs from major cities such as London, Rome and Berlin. Two places in the league would reportedly remain open for qualification through the EuroCup.