UEFA Champions League 2024-25: Decoding the 36-team format
The UEFA Champions League 2024-25 season will witness a new 36-team format, breaking away from the traditional 32-team affair. The revamped format will see the number of teams participating increase from 32 to 36. The transformation known as the 'Swiss model" marks the departure of the traditional group style format and promotes a more inclusive dynamic structure. Here's everything you need to know.
Here's how teams will be divided in the new format
A total of 36 teams will play eight matches each in the new league phase. They will no longer face the same three opponents in their group twice - home and away. But they will now face eight different teams. The matches will be equally divided into home and away fixtures. To determine the opponents, teams will be ranked in four seeding pots.
A look at UEFA'statement explaining the league stage
"To determine the eight different opponents, the teams will initially be ranked in four seeding pots. Each team will then be drawn to play two opponents from each of these pots, playing one match against a team from each pot at home and one away," UEFA explained. The intention to promote this format is to see more of the big clashes among top teams.
Top eight teams will directly qualify for the knockouts
Teams finishing in the top eight following the league phase will progress directly to round 16. While the teams finishing in between 9th and 24th ranks will compete in a two-legged playoff to seal their spot in the knockouts. Teams from 25th to 36th rank will be permanently eliminated from the competition and won't gain access to the UEFA Europa League.
UEFA wants to promote more unpredictability with this new format
"The new system will ensure fast-changing and unpredictable standings," the announcement said. "More matches between equally ranked teams competing for crucial points with fans able to enjoy top clashes right from the first match day." The number of matches will also increase from the current UEFA Champions League format, giving fans more opportunities to watch their favorite teams playing in elite European club competition.
Changes applied to Europa League and Conference League
From the round of 16 onwards, the Champions League will continue to follow its existing format of knockout rounds leading to the final staged at a neutral venue selected by governing body UEFA. Notably, the same format changes will also be applied to the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League, which will be called the UEFA Conference League as of 2024-25.
