UEFA has unveiled a new Champions League format for the upcoming season, offering more teams, more games, and increased prize money. This season’s format, replacing the traditional group stage, will feature a single-standings league phase with 36 teams, providing at least eight games for each team, as opposed to six in previous seasons. For the first time, Champions League games will be scheduled in January, with prize money set to increase by at least 25% to a minimum of 2.5 billion euros ($2.8 billion).
The new structure aims to enhance competitive balance, increase sporting interest, and ensure more meaningful matches throughout the competition. With a total of 144 games in the league phase, compared to 96 in the group stage last season, the intensity and stakes of the matches are expected to rise. The final round will see all 36 teams competing on the same evening to determine the eight teams advancing directly to the round of 16 and the seedings for the knockout brackets.
The decision to revamp the successful competition was largely driven by financial incentives and a desire for more exciting matchups. The European Club Association (ECA) pushed for these changes, aiming to avoid repetitiveness and introduce more drama and quality games. The format was met with some resistance but was ultimately approved in May 2022, following a turbulent period involving the failed launch of the Super League.
The new format does away with the group stage system, opting instead for a single-standings league where each team will play eight matches against different opponents. The top eight teams will advance directly to the round of 16, while teams ranked ninth to 24th will compete in knockout playoffs in February. Teams at the bottom will be eliminated from the competition.
A significant aspect of the restructuring is the allocation of four extra places, benefiting countries with strong performances in UEFA club competitions, as well as lower-ranked national champions. The draw for the 36 teams will be based on each team’s UEFA club coefficient, with match dates set to be confirmed soon.
The prize money for the Champions League has seen a substantial increase, with the winning team projected to earn up to 150 million euros ($168 million) this season. Each team will receive a base amount, with additional bonuses for victories, draws, and progress in the competition. Moreover, a separate prize fund based on historical records and broadcast deals will further boost revenue for the participating teams.
