EuroLeague 2026-27 rumors confirmed: Besiktas set to replace Monaco

26/06/202609:48

Next season is expected to remain at 20 teams, with a 24-team conference era planned from 2027-28

The rumors have been confirmed: the 2026-27 EuroLeague is expected to remain a 20-team competition, with Besiktas Istanbul set to replace AS Monaco.

According to Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews, Monaco has opted to move down to the EuroCup on a five-year, 3+2 license, opening a spot in Europe’s top competition. Besiktas, runner-up in the latest EuroCup season after losing the finals to JL Bourg, is expected to receive the wildcard.

The decision is expected to be ratified at the ECA Board meeting on June 26. BasketNews also reports that EuroLeague is set to approve an expansion to 24 teams from the 2027-28 season, with a conference-based format.

The 2026-27 lineup also includes Dubai Basketball, licensed through 2030, Hapoel Tel Aviv as EuroCup winner, and the Italian clubs Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna, with Virtus holding a license through 2028.