By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
While until recently EuroLeague was not examining the possibility of expanding, an exception for Dubai is possible after the decision of the shareholders to practically open the door to the project.
Per “Mundo Deportivo” it should be considered certain that Dubai will be in the league for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
However, per Eurohoops sources nothing is set in stone yet, even if it seems that it’s just a matter of time at this point for Dubai BC to be part of the EuroLeague.
Per the report, each of the clubs-shareholders will get a total of 5 million euros for the next five seasons straight from Dubai practically as a fee for entering the league.
That can be a key turning point in the Euroleague history because, for the first time, a high entry fee will be set since Dubai is interested in an A license.
It has to be noted also that contrary to the report, the contract of the joint venture with IMG ends in the summer of 2026, so this may end up also being another key point in the whole process.
At this point, while is possible for Dubai to be in the league as early as next season, nothing is finalized.
Having said that, the talks between all sides involved are almost daily, the whole project has been practically green-lighted since the end of November and it seems that there’s no turning back.