Pedro Martinez Set to Become Real Madrid Basketball Coach in Major Move

Pedro Martinez, recently named EuroLeague Coach of the Year and credited with leading Valencia to a historic Final Four appearance and a championship, is reportedly on the verge of signing with Real Madrid. According to Marca's report on June 29, 2026, Real Madrid will pay Valencia a one million euro buyout fee for Martinez, who extended his contract with Valencia during the past season. Martinez is expected to sign a three-year deal with Real Madrid, earning just over one million euros per season.

Meanwhile, Sergio Scariolo, the current Real Madrid coach, is set to be dismissed and will receive a substantial severance package of five million euros for the remaining two years on his contract. Valencia faces significant roster changes after their remarkable season, with key players Jan Montero moving to Olympiacos, Braxton Key to Fenerbahce, and likely Branko Badjo to Panathinaikos. Additionally, Sergio de la Rara and Jaime Pradilla may also depart, meaning Valencia could lose the core of the team Martinez built.

Martinez, 65, previously lost to Scariolo and Real Madrid in the EuroLeague semifinals and the Spanish Cup semifinals. Before his current tenure at Valencia, he coached Manresa for five years, achieving notable successes. His move to Real Madrid marks a significant step in his coaching career and is expected to have a major impact on Spanish and European basketball.