EuroLeague Expands to 24 Teams by 2027, Hapoel Tel Aviv in Race for Permanent License

The EuroLeague is set for a major expansion starting with the 2027/28 season, growing to 24 teams, with 21 clubs expected to hold permanent licenses. This restructuring is closely watched by Israeli basketball, as Hapoel Tel Aviv is among 11 clubs shortlisted for eight new permanent licenses. However, Hapoel Jerusalem did not pass the initial screening phase and will have to wait for future opportunities. This is a setback for Jerusalem, which has invested heavily in recent years to establish itself as a consistent contender in European basketball.

More than 20 clubs expressed interest in becoming permanent EuroLeague members. After the first round of filtering, the remaining 11 candidates include Hapoel Tel Aviv, Crvena Zvezda Belgrade, Dubai, London Lions, Napoli, PAOK Thessaloniki, Paris, Partizan Belgrade, Roma Maxima, Valencia, and Virtus Bologna. Only eight of these will be granted licenses, each requiring a significant entry fee of approximately 80 million euros.

The final decision on the eight new license holders is expected by the end of September, ahead of the new EuroLeague season. For Hapoel Tel Aviv, securing a permanent spot would mark a significant step in solidifying its status among Europe’s elite basketball clubs. Conversely, Hapoel Jerusalem’s exclusion from the initial round represents a notable disappointment for the club and its ambitions.