EuroLeague Owners Meet in Italy to Discuss Major Expansion and Financial Overhaul

Representatives from the 13 founding clubs of the EuroLeague are holding a crucial two-day meeting in Como, Italy, to discuss significant changes that could reshape the competition. Key topics on the agenda include the expansion of the league to 24 teams by the 2027/28 season, the transition of founding clubs to a franchise model similar to the NBA, and potential financial implications.

The league aims to issue eight new franchise licenses, with 13 clubs, including Israel's Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, vying for them. However, reports suggest that clubs like Aris Thessaloniki, Valencia, and Serbian teams Crvena Zvezda and Partizan Belgrade may have a higher chance. The cost of a franchise is estimated between 50 to 90 million euros, potentially generating up to 560 million euros for the EuroLeague if all eight licenses are sold. The distribution of these funds among the founding clubs, with the goal of supporting them financially and sportively, is also under discussion, with each potentially receiving around 43 million euros.

Discussions are also expected to cover changes to the league's game format, potentially moving to two conferences like the NBA, which could reduce the number of regular-season games. There is also speculation about a mid-season tournament. The potential for a merger or closer ties with the NBA is another subject, though it is viewed more as an exit strategy by some in Europe. The NBA's own plans for a European league are also a factor in these discussions.

Separately, the return of games to Israel is not currently on the EuroLeague's agenda. While the CEO was expected to visit Israel, this has not yet occurred, possibly due to recent events and upcoming elections. Maccabi Tel Aviv is preparing to move its home games to Cyprus in the coming weeks, and Hapoel Tel Aviv is already arranging accommodation for its players and staff in Sofia, Bulgaria.