The Culture

AS Monaco Basketball Battles for Betclic Élite Return Ahead of New Season

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by Natalia Bezruk Senior Contributor
August 07, 2026
AS Monaco Basketball Battles for Betclic Élite Return Ahead of New Season

Image by Schorsch from Pixabay

Just weeks before the start of the 2026–2027 campaign, AS Monaco Basketball is facing one of the most challenging moments in its recent history. Fresh from winning the 2025–2026 Betclic Élite championship, the Roca Team now finds itself fighting for its place in France's top division following an administrative dispute that has cast uncertainty over the club's immediate future.

Earlier this week, AS Monaco confirmed that it had referred its case to the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) after the French Basketball Federation (FFBB) Appeals Chamber upheld a decision refusing the club's registration for the upcoming Betclic Élite season. The appeal represents the next step in the French sports dispute resolution process and could prove decisive ahead of the league's opening games.

In an official statement, the club reaffirmed its determination to pursue every legal avenue available under French sports law while continuing an internal restructuring process aimed at resolving the financial and administrative issues that emerged during the past season. According to the federation, the decision followed the club's failure to submit the required documentation within an extended deadline.

The uncertainty comes as a sharp contrast to Monaco's remarkable rise over recent years. The club has become one of Europe's leading basketball teams, collecting domestic titles while establishing itself as a regular contender in the EuroLeague, including a memorable appearance in the 2024–2025 championship game.

The consequences of the current situation extend beyond French basketball. As part of its restructuring, AS Monaco will not compete in the EuroLeague this season and is instead expected to play in the EuroCup, marking a significant shift after several years among Europe's elite.

The ongoing proceedings have also delayed preparations for the new campaign. While rival clubs have already completed their recruitment, Monaco has yet to unveil its official roster, leaving players, supporters and partners awaiting clarity.

With the club's first EuroCup fixture scheduled for the end of September, the coming weeks will be crucial. The outcome of the CNOSF conciliation process could determine whether the reigning French champions return to Betclic Élite in time for the new season or face a prolonged legal battle that could reshape the future of one of European basketball's most ambitious clubs.


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Natalia Bezruk

Senior Contributor

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