What's Happening?
The Champions League draw has been completed, setting the schedule for the 2025-26 season. The league phase will begin on September 16, 2025, and conclude on January 28, 2026. The knockout phase will start with play-offs in February 2026 and end with the final on May 30, 2026. The draw assigns each team eight opponents, with two from each pot, ensuring diverse matchups. Clubs from the same league cannot face each other in the league phase.
Why It's Important?
The draw marks the continuation of the Champions League's new format, which aims to increase competitiveness and viewer engagement. The schedule provides a clear timeline for clubs to strategize and prepare for their matches. Success in the league phase is crucial for teams seeking to advance to the knockout rounds, impacting their financial and reputational standing. The diverse matchups will attract global audiences, boosting the tournament's visibility and appeal.
What's Next?
Teams will begin their league-phase matches on September 16, 2025, aiming to secure a top-eight finish to advance directly to the knockout stages. Those finishing between ninth and 24th will enter a knockout-phase play-off. The draw for these play-offs is set for January 30, 2026. The knockout rounds will follow, leading to the final on May 30, 2026, at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. Clubs will focus on optimizing their performance to achieve favorable outcomes.
