By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Imminent danger for Limoges CSP to be relegated from the top-tier division of France to the amateur level for the 2024-25 season.
On Tuesday, majority shareholder Celine Forte presented the CSP file to DNCCG. The body, responsible for approving financial fair play across clubs participating in France’s Betclic Elite and Pro B, rejected the plan, refusing entry to the two top divisions of the country for the next season. Looking to avoid relegation to National Masculine 3, the fifth-tier and top amateur division of France, CSP can appeal the initial decision within the next eight days.
The latest upheaval surrounding Cercle Saint-Pierre is combined with Forte rejecting a lucrative takeover bid from Lionel Peluhet, naturally worrying supporters of the storied club. In a direct connection to the above decision, team president Didier Jamot resigned from his position.
The only French team to conquer Europe’s top-tier club continental competition, CSP was crowned FIBA European League champion in 1993, winning the Final Four played in the Peace and Friendship Stadium of Piraeus, Greece, under the guidance of legendary tactician Bozidar Maljkovic.
The team total of 11 domestic league championships, including two titles following a relegation to France’s third division due to financial problems in 2004. Returning to Pro A for good in 2012, Limoges captured back-to-back championships in 2014 and 2015. Over recent years, the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, 7DAYS EuroCup, and Basketball Champions League marked a return to European club continental competitions, in a rewind to past success.