The EuroLeague is taking one of the most significant steps in its modern history. Europe’s premier club basketball competition has launched an ambitious transformation process aimed at reshaping its sporting and commercial structure through the sale of eight new franchises. The initiative is part of a strategic plan designed to strengthen the league, attract new investment, and establish a sustainable growth model for the years ahead.
The decision comes at a pivotal moment for European basketball, driven by growing investor interest and a changing landscape fueled in part by discussions between the NBA and FIBA regarding the future of the sport in Europe. Against this backdrop, the EuroLeague is seeking to expand the competition, increase its commercial value, and provide a more stable model for the clubs involved.
EuroLeague accelerates its expansion with new franchises
Following approval from its Board of Directors, the EuroLeague officially launched the sale of eight new franchises, which are expected to begin competing in the 2027–28 season. The move is part of the league’s objective to expand to 24 teams, while ensuring that two of those places remain reserved for clubs qualifying through the EuroCup, preserving a pathway based on sporting merit.
Interest in the new model has exceeded initial expectations. The organization confirmed that it has already received more than 20 formal proposals, representing potential investment exceeding €1.2 billion. League officials believe that this figure will continue to rise as the selection process progresses, reflecting the growing appeal of the EuroLeague among investment groups looking to contribute to the development of European basketball.
A structural change to drive the growth of European basketball
Alongside the sale of new franchises, the EuroLeague is working to convert the 13 permanent shareholder licenses held by its member clubs into long-term franchises, a process expected to be completed during the 2026–27 season. The conversion will take place without requiring franchise fees or entry payments from the current shareholders, recognizing their long-standing commitment to the league’s growth and stability over the past decades.
This initiative is part of a business plan unveiled earlier this year, with the goal of increasing the EuroLeague’s valuation to €2.5 billion within three seasons. According to the league’s Chief Executive Officer, Chus Bueno, growing investor interest confirms the tournament’s expansion potential and reinforces the strategy approved by the organization. As the European basketball landscape continues to evolve amid ongoing discussions between the NBA and FIBA over a possible expansion into Europe, the EuroLeague aims to strengthen its position through a model that combines financial stability, commercial growth, and an increasingly attractive competition for clubs, fans, and strategic partners.
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