The UEFA Champions League will undergo a significant transformation starting with the 2024/2025 season. This change marks the most substantial alteration in the tournament's format since its inception in 1992. The new format, often referred to as the "Swiss model," will replace the traditional group stage structure, aiming to increase the number of matches, provide more varied competition, and enhance the excitement throughout the tournament.
Key Changes in the New Format:
Single League Table: The traditional group stage, featuring 32 teams divided into eight groups of four, will be replaced by a single league table of 36 teams. Each team will play eight matches against different opponents (four at home and four away) rather than the current six. This approach aims to provide a wider range of matchups, with each team facing a different set of opponents.
Expanded Participation: The number of teams participating in the league phase will increase from 32 to 36. This expansion opens opportunities for more clubs to participate, including additional teams from Europe’s top leagues and potentially more from lesser-represented nations.
Qualification for Knockout Stage: The top eight teams from this league phase will automatically qualify for the Round of 16. Teams placed from 9th to 24th will enter a two-legged playoff round to secure their place in the knockout stage, while the remaining teams will be eliminated from the competition.
Increased Number of Matches: The new format increases the total number of matches from 125 to 189. This change provides fans with more games to watch, offering a richer and more diverse set of encounters across Europe.
More Varied Matchups: The Swiss model allows teams to play against a wider range of opponents, creating more diversity in UEFA Champions league fixtures and ensuring a more unpredictable and exciting league phase. Each club will play against eight different teams, which adds variety and reduces repetitive matchups seen in the previous group stage format.
Enhanced Commercial Opportunities: UEFA aims to increase the competition's appeal to broadcasters and sponsors by offering more games and high-profile matchups. This change is expected to generate greater revenue and enhance the overall growth of the tournament
