Hapoel Jerusalem remains in EuroLeague race and prepares franchise proposal

26/08/202613:43

After not being included among the initial 11 pre-accepted proposals, Hapoel Jerusalem has confirmed it remains in contention and is preparing a final bid for a long-term EuroLeague franchise license.

Hapoel Jerusalem wants to join the EuroLeague

After EuroLeague Basketball announced that 11 teams had submitted pre-accepted franchise proposals worth nearly €700 million in fees, Hapoel Jerusalem has confirmed that it remains firmly in contention for a long-term EuroLeague license.

The Israeli club was not included among the initial 11 pre-accepted proposals, but has since clarified that it expects to advance to the second stage of the application process.

The EuroLeague franchise process

The Board of Shareholders of Euroleague Commercial Assets (ECA) received more than 20 formal expressions of interest and proposals from existing EuroLeague and EuroCup clubs, as well as new investment projects seeking to join the competition.

The application process began in July 2026 and aims to award up to eight new long-term franchises for the 2027-28 season.

During the second phase, EuroLeague Basketball will conduct a more extensive review of each proposal before presenting its final recommendations at the next Owners’ meeting, scheduled for the end of September 2026.

Hapoel Jerusalem confirms its bid

Hapoel Jerusalem has rejected reports suggesting that it is out of the race and confirmed that it is preparing a proposal for the EuroLeague Board.

“Contrary to recent reports, Hapoel Jerusalem remains firmly in contention for a long-term EuroLeague franchise license.”

The club is currently conducting a comprehensive due diligence process, which is expected to continue over the coming weeks. The goal is to develop and submit a final proposal ahead of next month’s EuroLeague Board meeting.

Matan Adelson: “Our ambition is clear”

Hapoel Jerusalem owner Matan Adelson also reiterated the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level of European basketball.

“Hapoel Jerusalem’s ambition is clear: to compete at the highest level of European basketball.”

Adelson added that the club intends to present the EuroLeague with a very strong proposal, both economically and strategically, expressing confidence that Hapoel Jerusalem can make a compelling case for approval by the EuroLeague Board.