Saski Baskonia leads the acquisition of Buesa Arena for €153 million, a deal announced on July 7 2026 that raises Grupo Baskonia Alavés' total investment to €253 million. The transaction covers the arena, its parking and adjacent parcels, aiming to turn the venue into an international benchmark.
What does the purchase entail?
The Basque holding, owner of Deportivo Alavés and Saski Baskonia, will fold Buesa Arena into a modernization plan that includes capacity upgrades and year‑round multi‑use programming. President Josean Querejeta said the deal will “integrate the arena, the parking and the parcels linked to its activity within a long‑term global vision”.
How does it impact the local economy?
Baskonia Alavés currently employs 850 staff. The Ondare project, spurred by the purchase, will add 345 jobs, raising the total to 1 195 positions linked to the group and its ecosystem. Annual economic activity will climb from €152 million to €205.8 million, and yearly attendance is projected to exceed 802 000 spectators, up from 615 500 today. Tax revenue for the Foral Treasury of Álava will rise from €27.96 million to €39.78 million per year, with a ten‑year fiscal return estimated at €397.6 million.
What projects accompany the renovation?
Alongside Buesa Arena, the Group will expand the EUNEIZ university and create a specialized Vocational Training Center. The ecosystem already includes EUNEIZ, the BAKH sports center, Ondare Residence and the Baskonia Alavés Academy, all located a few meters from the arena and generating daily activity.
What is the long‑term vision?
Querejeta emphasized that “we have spent many years proving that from Álava we can also compete with the best”. The goal is to keep the teams at the highest level, relying on large‑scale infrastructure that fuels competitiveness in the ACB and European contests. With the new capacity, Buesa Arena could host international tournaments, concerts and corporate events, maximizing rental and sponsorship income.
What does it mean for fans?
Saski Baskonia supporters will enjoy an upgraded experience: more comfortable seats, premium hospitality zones and a broader activity offering around the venue. Expanded parking will cut wait times, and the multi‑use schedule will keep the arena active even outside the basketball season, preserving the vibrant atmosphere of Vitoria‑Gasteiz year‑round.