Dejan Bodiroga, president of EuroLeague, expressed optimism regarding the long-term roles of Serbian clubs Partizan and Crvena Zvezda in the competition as it moves toward an expansion and franchise model. Speaking at the “Radar Forum,” Bodiroga confirmed that both clubs submitted binding offers to join the new franchise system.
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“Both clubs have a very good standing with our board. Through this process, their involvement and fulfilling all the requirements, I think they have very good chances of being in the EuroLeague,” Bodiroga stated. He emphasized that he views them as long-term partners in the league.
The proposed changes are part of a larger restructuring, with plans to expand from 20 to 24 teams next season. Bodiroga mentioned a shift from the current round-robin format to a system featuring two conferences. “We haven’t yet determined the criteria for forming those conferences,” he noted. Additionally, he highlighted significant interest from various teams, both from the EuroCup and beyond, who have also submitted offers to join EuroLeague.
Bodiroga described a recent shareholders’ meeting in Italy as a pivotal moment for these developments, citing increased attendance, larger television audiences, and heightened commercial interest in the league. “The EuroLeague has never been stronger than it is today,” he remarked, indicating progress according to their strategic plan.