French basketball champions AS Monaco face league exclusion over financial woes

AS Monaco, the current champions of the French basketball league, faces exclusion from the competition next season due to deep-seated financial problems. The club, despite winning the league title, has been grappling with significant economic issues, leading to its withdrawal from the EuroLeague and a return to the EuroCup, the second-tier European competition. This financial crisis has also resulted in the departure of key players, including prominent figures like Mike James, Alpha Diallo, and Élie Okobo.

The French Basketball Federation (FFBB) officially informed the club that its appeal to remain in the LNB Betclic Élite, France's top basketball division, for the 2026-2027 season has been rejected. This veto extends to participation in any LNB leagues, including the second division. The club, based in the Principality, is now exploring the possibility of lodging a final appeal with the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF).

Monaco had initially appealed the FFBB's decision on July 20. The Appeals Chamber of the FFBB granted an extension until July 31 for the club to submit the necessary documentation. However, according to the federation's announcement, the club failed to provide the required documents within the stipulated timeframe. "AS Monaco Basket also wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the institutions of the Principality of Monaco, as well as to all those who continue to support the Club's restructuring process and its efforts to comply with all regulatory requirements established by the FFBB and the LNB," the club stated on social media.

During the previous season, the team, owned by Russian magnate Alexey Fedorychev, faced financial penalties for unpaid salaries to players and staff, along with restrictions on signing new players. The situation escalated to a critical point, prompting the Principality of Monaco to take control of the team to manage the crisis and prevent financial bankruptcy. Players like Mike James, who has since joined Dubai Basketball, had previously distanced themselves from the club for two and a half months due to non-payment issues but returned to play in the decisive fifth game of the French league finals, which Monaco won against Paris Basketball.

“

AS Monaco Basket wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the institutions of the Principality of Monaco, as well as to all those who continue to support the Club's restructuring process and its efforts to comply with all regulatory requirements established by the FFBB and the LNB.