Virtus Bologna president and owner Massimo Zanetti said the EuroLeague has reached a binding principle agreement with American partners that could reshape the competition into a franchise model. Speaking in Italy, he said all participating clubs have already signed binding contracts with the league, and that once a franchise is bought, its owner will keep a permanent place in the competition regardless of sporting results.
Zanetti also laid out the expected entry costs. For six “historical” clubs without an A license, including Bologna, the franchise would reportedly cost about 50 million euros, paid over 10 years. Other clubs seeking entry would face much steeper fees, between 80 million and 85 million euros, while the Dubai club would be asked to pay about 90 million euros.
According to Zanetti, the planned overhaul would end with a 28-team EuroLeague divided into separate groups. He said the project also includes a future strategic partnership between the EuroLeague and NBA Europe.
Zanetti added that the deal with the American side, along with new television contracts and joint plans, is expected to significantly increase revenue for the member clubs.