Idman.biz
The Spanish basketball clubs "Real" (Madrid) and "Barcelona" are seriously considering the possibility of leaving the Euroleague and joining the FIBA Champions League. "Sabail" is currently playing in that tournament, and in the future, the next winner of the Azerbaijan Basketball League will also participate.
Idman.Biz reported this with reference to Gazzetta.gr.
According to the source, both clubs may temporarily move to the FIBA Champions League until the "NBA Europe" project is launched. "Barcelona" and "Real" are in active contact with this project. Both clubs are offered guaranteed contracts and financial bonuses.
At the same time, Euroleague shareholders are demanding that clubs decide on signing a new ten-year contract by the end of the year. This agreement will replace the initial term set in June 2026.
It is noted that "Real" and "Barcelona" have recently taken an observer position at Euroleague Council meetings. FIBA, on the other hand, has a positive attitude towards this transition, as the participation of these clubs will increase the prestige and commercial attractiveness of the tournament.
If the Spanish giants move to the FIBA Champions League, they could become potential rivals of the Azerbaijani club as early as the 2026/2027 season. This means that in the future, games with "Barcelona" or "Real" could be held in Baku.
It was previously reported that the NBA is considering launching its European project in the 2027/2028 season. However, the exact start date of the project has not yet been determined. Therefore, the transition to the FIBA Champions League may be a temporary stage for Spanish clubs before potential participation in the "NBA Europe" project.
Teymur Tushiyev
