ROME — Luka Dončić-led BC Roma SPQR have submitted a binding offer for one of the eight new EuroLeague franchises, lifting the total number of bids to 14 including two separate projects from the Italian capital.
The bid from BC Roma SPQR was lodged ahead of the league’s next board meeting and was one of the reasons no new franchises were announced following the recent meeting in Como. There, EuroLeague owners confirmed plans to expand the competition to 24 teams from the 2027–28 season but postponed franchise decisions while the offers undergo further review, with Roma Maxima already among the candidates before Como.
Alongside the two Rome projects — BC Roma SPQR and Roma Maxima — the remaining contenders are Crvena Zvezda, Dubai, Hapoel Tel Aviv, London Lions, Napoli Basket, PAOK, Paris Basketball, Partizan, Valencia, Virtus Bologna, Hapoel Jerusalem and Aris, all vying for the eight available spots.
The eight successful bidders would join the 13 existing ECA shareholders, whose current 10-year licences are set to be converted into franchises. Owners have tasked the Board of Directors with reviewing the 14 offers and presenting a final recommendation for approval in the coming weeks.