EuroLeague Expansion Could Boost Israeli Teams Amid Russian Return Uncertainty

The EuroLeague has announced a major structural overhaul set to begin in the 2027/28 season, expanding the league to 24 teams and introducing a franchise model. This change is expected to benefit Israeli clubs Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, who aim to join Maccabi Tel Aviv as permanent franchise members. The league's 13 current owners will become franchise holders without fees as recognition for their long-term commitment, while new entrants, including the Israeli teams, will compete for eight franchise licenses, each potentially costing around 60 million euros.

Maccabi Tel Aviv, a founding member, is guaranteed a spot and stands to gain financially from the league's increased value through shared revenues from TV rights, media, and advertising. For Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, obtaining franchise status would grant them similar rights and significant new revenue streams, which they have not previously enjoyed.

However, the recent decision by the International Olympic Committee to lift the suspension on Russian teams complicates the competition for franchise spots. This move could allow prominent Russian clubs such as CSKA Moscow, Zenit, Kazan, and Kuban to rejoin the EuroLeague, increasing the number of strong contenders. The EuroLeague plans to announce the first new franchise members between September and November 2027.

Under the new format, besides the 21 franchise teams, two EuroCup finalists will also qualify for the EuroLeague, ensuring more opportunities for non-franchise clubs to participate, though without the full rights and financial benefits of franchise members. The league is also considering allowing games to return to Israel next season if the security situation remains stable, after concerns about the lack of home-court atmosphere during Hapoel Tel Aviv's playoff games held abroad.

The race for franchise licenses is expected to be highly competitive, with other clubs from Dubai, Red Star Belgrade, Partizan Belgrade, Paris, Valencia, Virtus Bologna, Besiktas, London Lions, and potentially the returning Russian teams all vying for spots. The outcome will significantly impact the future of Israeli basketball at the highest European level.