Full Breakdown
EuroLeague Games Remain Abroad as Israeli Clubs Seek Home Return
9/6/2026, 11:04:47 PM
Current Status of EuroLeague Fixtures
The EuroLeague’s season-opening Supercup is scheduled for Abu Dhabi, meaning that no Israeli club will host a game at the start of the campaign. The league has not issued an official response to inquiries from Israeli teams about restoring home venues.
Israeli Clubs Press for a Return
Maccabi Tel Aviv formally approached EuroLeague officials, requesting a renewed discussion on the possibility of playing games in Israel. The club’s appeal follows the league’s decision to hold the Supercup abroad, a move that has drawn comparatively less criticism than the Emirates’ own hosting of the event.
Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem are also monitoring the situation. Both clubs have sent messages to EuroLeague as part of broader efforts to secure a franchise under the competition’s upcoming structural reforms. Their officials note that prolonged absence of Israeli home games could jeopardize their licensing prospects.
Government Intervention
Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar confirmed at a Tennis Association gathering that he has sent a letter to EuroLeague leadership urging the return of games to Israel. This diplomatic outreach underscores the Israeli government’s support for domestic basketball venues.
Anticipated Discussions and Potential Outcomes
According to multiple sources, EuroLeague is expected to hold internal discussions on the issue within less than two weeks. No formal decision has been announced, and the league’s silence leaves the clubs’ future home-court prospects uncertain. Should the talks lead to a reversal, Israeli teams could host early-season matches, preserving their chances of obtaining or retaining franchise licenses. Conversely, a continued overseas schedule would maintain the status quo, potentially affecting the clubs’ competitive and commercial positioning.
