Monaco is exploring an unexpected route into the Adriatic basketball system after financial difficulties cost the club its places in multiple competitions.
The French champions were first removed from the EuroLeague because they could not meet the necessary financial requirements. Monaco subsequently lost its EuroCup place as well, with Bosna taking the available spot.
Problems continued domestically. Monaco failed to provide the financial guarantees required to participate in France’s LNB and was also prevented from entering the country’s lower divisions, leaving the club without a competition for the season.
With its options in France and European tournaments disappearing, Monaco has now approached the ABA League about a possible move to the Adriatic competition.
According to Meridian Sport, the club contacted ABA League president Ostoja Mijailović and expressed its desire to join the league. However, Monaco would reportedly not be able to enter the top division immediately and would instead have to begin in the ABA 2 League.
Monaco has formally sent a letter to the ABA League seeking a quick decision on its request. The club is pushing for clarity because the start of the season is approaching and its competitive future remains unresolved.
A response from the ABA League is expected in the coming days, which should determine whether Monaco will be given an opportunity to continue its season in the second tier of the Adriatic competition.
