EuroLeague to Expand to 30 Teams: Partizan and Crvena Zvezda Among Top Franchise Candidates

EuroLeague is set to transition to a franchise model, with the official start of the season on July 1st. Olympiacos, Real Madrid, Fenerbahçe, Panathinaikos, Baskonia, Barcelona, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Anadolu Efes, Olimpia Milano, Žalgiris, Bayern Munich, CSKA, and Asvel will become the initial franchise teams.

According to "Mozzart Sport," EuroLeague's long-term vision includes expanding to as many as 30 participants, a process planned in two phases. The first phase, scheduled for the 2027/28 season, would see the number of clubs increase to 24. The second phase, aiming for 30 participants, is expected to follow a year or two later.

Furthermore, the same source indicates that the initial expansion phase would involve up to eight new clubs receiving identical rights to the current co-owners. Partizan and Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet are strong contenders to be among these eight selected clubs, positioning themselves as prime candidates for EuroLeague franchise status.

Upon gaining franchise status, these newly minted co-owners would have equal voting rights, a share in revenue distribution, and all other privileges currently enjoyed by the 13 established teams.

The meeting also touched upon the EuroCup, with an idea floated that in the near future, the EuroLeague invitation could extend to the EuroCup runner-up, not just the champion.

Finally, it's worth noting that interest in joining the franchise system is already significant, with over 17 clubs expressing a desire to become franchises. Beyond the current EuroLeague teams, cities like London, Rome, and Berlin have also shown considerable interest.

The value of individual franchises is estimated to be between 50 and 90 million euros, with the final figure depending on the market, business potential, and the significance a particular club can bring to the competition.

The next step is anticipated in early July, when EuroLeague will provide potential candidates with comprehensive documentation and application guidelines. Only after this will EuroLeague evaluate all applications and determine the path forward.

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