Patrick Beverley will have to wait before joining Boulazac. The 38-year-old former NBA guard is expected to arrive between late August and early September, once the administrative procedures and visa process have been completed.
But Beverley’s situation is part of a much wider issue affecting French basketball.
THE NEW VISA PROCEDURE IS CAUSING DELAYS
American players must now obtain their visa BEFORE entering France.
The procedure has changed significantly. Previously, American players could enter France and complete the necessary paperwork with the local prefecture.
Now, the visa must be obtained in the United States before the player travels to France.
Maine Libre quoted Le Mans administrative director Arnaud Leproux:
“The regulations have changed. Previously, American players arrived in France and we regularized their paperwork at the prefecture in Le Mans. Now, the visa has to be obtained in advance in the United States.”
MOSES WOOD: VISA RECEIVED AT THE LAST MINUTE
The new procedure also affected Moses Wood’s arrival at Le Mans.
“Our latest signing, Moses Wood, only received his visa last Thursday, August 6. It was extremely tight.”
Leproux also highlighted the logistical difficulties, with some players living hundreds of kilometers from French consulates in the United States.
DIJON ALSO STARTED PRESEASON WITHOUT TWO AMERICANS
JDA Dijon began its preseason without Silas Melson and Kevion Taylor, who were also delayed by the administrative procedures required to enter France.
The consequences are not only administrative.
DELAYED ARRIVALS MEAN DELAYED PREPARATION
Clubs are now having to deal with:
- Delayed integration into the team
- Delayed physical preparation
- Tactical work without the complete roster
- Less time to build chemistry before the season
The new visa procedure is therefore becoming a significant factor in the preparation of French clubs ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Source: BeBasket / Le Maine Libre
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