Latest:
jun 12 2026The EuroCup has nearly finalized its composition for the 2026-27 season. The continental competition will expand to 32 participants and introduce a new format that will increase the number of matches and playoff rounds, though one major question remains: AS Monaco's European future.
The organization has confirmed an initial list of 32 spots, which includes the Monegasque club as one of the teams that have received a long-term license. However, its presence in the second continental competition is not guaranteed, as the club continues to pursue one of the final invitations to compete in the EuroLeague next season.
The final decision on the remaining spots in Europe's top competition will be made on June 26. If Monaco or any other team on the list ultimately receives an EuroLeague invitation, its EuroCup vacancy would be filled by another candidate club that has already submitted the necessary documentation.
The club from the Principality is keeping all options open. AS Monaco's general manager, Oleksiy Yefimov, recently confirmed that the organization continues working to secure an EuroLeague spot and that conversations with competition officials remain active. He also stressed that the club's primary strategic objective is to be part of any future expansion or franchise project that guarantees long-term stability.
Beyond Monaco's situation, the main novelty of the season will be the increase in the number of participants. The 32 teams will be divided into four groups of eight clubs. The top four from each group will advance to the playoffs, which will begin in the Round of 16 and will be played entirely in a best-of-three format through the final.
The competition will feature representatives from 16 different countries. Italy will be the nation with the strongest presence, contributing five teams: Dolomiti Energia Trento, Reyer Venezia, Bertram Tortona, Napoli Basket, and Roma. Germany and Turkey will each be represented by four clubs.
For Spanish basketball, two teams have secured their spots in the competition. La Laguna Tenerife will participate with a five-year license, while Kids&Us Manresa will compete thanks to an annual license.
One spot remains to be awarded through invitation. Among the candidates vying for that final position are Girona, Hamburg Towers, Cibona Zagreb, San Pablo Burgos, and Legia Varsovia.
The final list must receive formal approval from the competition's governing bodies before being officially ratified, though the scenario for the next edition is already nearly set and confirms the EuroCup's commitment to significant expansion in both the number of teams and competitive format.
