The UEFA Champions League is poised to undergo a significant transformation in its format starting from the next season. UEFA has announced major changes, with the group stage transitioning into a 36-team league competition, expanding from the current 32-team setup.
Under the new format, all participating teams will be divided into four seeding pots to determine their opponents. Each team will play against two opponents from every pot, resulting in a total of eight matches for each team. The top eight teams from the league stage will advance directly to the Round of 16, playing four home and four away matches.
UEFA confirm official new Champions League format from the 24/25 season
🚨🏆 New Champions League format from 2024/25, confirmed.pic.twitter.com/XHqye6FQZO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 4, 2024
Teams ranked ninth to 24th will engage in knockout-style playoff matches to secure their spots in the Round of 16. However, teams ranked 17th to 24th will face elimination from all competitions at this stage. Additionally, the losers of the playoff matches will not be granted a place in the UEFA Europa League.
Despite these significant changes, the knockout stages, including the pre-quarterfinals, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final, will follow the current model.
UEFA President Aleksandar Ceferin confirmed that all European partners have unanimously approved the new format, signaling widespread acceptance and support for the proposed changes. This overhaul marks a significant evolution in the structure of one of football’s most prestigious competitions, aiming to enhance competitiveness and excitement for fans across the globe.
