By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Amid the well-documented financial struggles of AS Monaco, which eventually led to the departure of head coach Vassilis Spanoulis, the club’s future remains deeply complicated. Despite these severe fiscal woes, Monaco’s EuroLeague status has not yet been finalized, since the club requires a wildcard or a long-term license for the upcoming 2026-27 season, as it no longer holds a EuroCup qualification spot.
The situation has triggered significant involvement from the Monegasque state, which recently provided a financial lifeline to settle urgent debts, including player salaries and social security. Consequently, a provisional administrator has been appointed to conduct a comprehensive audit and determine the club’s ultimate solvency. On the regulatory front, various sanctions include heavy fines, registration bans for new players, and points deductions or potential exclusion from the Betclic Elite Playoffs 2026.
Euroleague Basketball management continues to monitor team developments closely, and everything is open, especially if a new owner with high financial status gets involved. The club’s long-term stability now depends heavily on the ability to secure a majority owner capable of clearing existing debts and meeting the licensing requirements of top-flight European competition.
On Wednesday, Monaco officially announced a mutual separation from 43-year-old Spanoulis. In a formal press release, the club expressed gratitude for the “passion, energy, and dedication” he brought, wishing him success in his future endeavors.
Per the press release: “AS Monaco Basket announced today that the club and Head Coach Vassilis Spanoulis have mutually agreed to part ways, effective immediately.
The club thanks Spanoulis for the passion, energy, and dedication he brought to the Roca Team during his time with the organization. His commitment to the team and to the club’s values will remain part of Monaco’s journey.
AS Monaco Basket is grateful for the work he has done and for the spirit he shared with the players, staff, and our fans. Vassilis will always be welcomed as part of the Roca Team family.
The club wishes him continued success in the next stage of his career.
AS Monaco Basket remains united and focused on finishing the season with the determination and pride that define Monaco basketball.”
“My stay in Monaco will always remain in my memory. The first trophy I won as a coach and my first EuroLeague final are achievements I will never forget! I wish the club much success for the rest of the season!” stated the Greek tactician.
Following his exit, Sergii Gladyr has been appointed interim head coach and is expected to finish the 2025-26 continental and domestic schedules at the helm.
La Roca Team successfully advanced to the Coupe de France championship game on Tuesday and is scheduled to face Le Mans for the trophy in late April. In continental play, the club currently occupies ninth place in the EuroLeague standings with a 16-14 record, keeping them firmly within the Play-In Showdown zone. Domestically, they remain the frontrunners of the French League, boasting an impressive 18-2 tally.