EuroLeague Launches New SuperCup Basketball Tournament in Abu Dhabi This September
The EuroLeague, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, has announced the launch of a new European basketball competition called the EuroLeague SuperCup. The inaugural event is scheduled for September 18 and 19, 2026, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. This tournament will officially open the European basketball season and feature four top teams: reigning EuroLeague champion Olympiacos, 2025 champion Fenerbahçe, European runner-up Real Madrid, and Dubai Basketball Club representing the UAE.
The tournament will follow a Final Four format, with the first semifinal on September 18 at 17:00 Israel time between Olympiacos and Fenerbahçe, followed by Dubai facing Real Madrid at 20:00 Israel time. The next day will host the third-place game and the final, where the first-ever SuperCup trophy will be awarded.
Despite efforts by Israeli teams Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv to bring EuroLeague games back to Israel, the league has opted to hold this new event in Abu Dhabi, reportedly due to financial considerations. This decision is notable given the similar security concerns Israel and the UAE face regarding Iran. EuroLeague President Dejan Bodiroga and CEO Jordi Bertomeu emphasized that the SuperCup marks an innovative chapter in the global basketball calendar, promising fans and clubs a prestigious and exciting season opener.
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