By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The 2025–26 Winner League Regular Season has been temporarily suspended due to escalating regional security concerns, mirroring the disruptions that prevented a champion from being crowned in the previous season.
Following safety directives from the Home Front Command, the league prioritized the protection of players and fans under a declared state of emergency. Before the pause, Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv sat atop the standings with 36 points, though they virtually trailed Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv, who boasted a 16–1 record.
While domestic play is suspended, top clubs are expected to maintain their continental commitments in the EuroLeague and BKT EuroCup.
ליגת ווינר סל פועלת בהתאם להנחיות פיקוד העורף, ועובדת על מנת להוציא לפועל, בהתאם למצב בשטח, את התכניות שהוכנו מבעוד מועד למצב הקיים.
הליגה נמצאת בקשר שוטף עם הקבוצות, גורמי הביטחון ומשרד התרבות והספורט, ופועלת לביצוע כלל ההתאמות והצעדים הנדרשים, כדי להבטיח היערכות מיטבית לחידוש… pic.twitter.com/9Abuf5QLNs
— Winner League (@WinnerLeague) February 28, 2026
Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv are in the process of relocating their daily operations to Belgrade, Serbia, and Sofia, Bulgaria, respectively. Consequently, upcoming home fixtures are likely be moved to these neutral venues to comply with safety protocols. Hapoel currently sits in a strong fifth-place position in the EuroLeague with a 17–11 record, while Maccabi remains just outside the playoff picture at 14–15. Meanwhile, Hapoel Midtown Jerusalem has officially moved its base to Belgrade in preparations for the EuroCup Quarterfinals.
On the international stage, the senior national team of Israel is also operating under restrictive conditions. The squad has remained in Limassol for the current FIBA window dedicated to the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers. Following a 40-point victory over Cyprus at the Spyros Kyprianou Arena on Friday, the two teams are set for a rematch at the same venue on Sunday. Israel currently sits third in Group E with a 1–2 tally.