The UEFA Champions League is back for its third season under the revolutionary new 36-team format — and it promises to be bigger and more exciting than ever. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026/27 Champions League schedule, format, and key dates.
Key Dates for the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League
- Qualifying rounds: June – August 2026
- League phase draw: Late August 2026
- League phase matchdays 1–4: September – October 2026
- League phase matchdays 5–8: November – December 2026
- Knockout round playoffs (9th–24th place): February 2027
- Round of 16: March 2027
- Quarter-finals: April 2027
- Semi-finals: April–May 2027
- Champions League Final: 31 May 2027
The Format Explained
The 36-team league phase that debuted in 2024/25 is now in its third year. Every club plays eight group-stage matches against eight different opponents — no more groups, just a single expanded league table ranking all 36 teams.
- 1st–8th place: Advance directly to the Round of 16
- 9th–24th place: Enter a two-legged knockout round playoff in February
- 25th–36th place: Eliminated — no Europa League consolation for non-qualifying sides
This format rewards consistency across eight matches rather than two groups of three, creating more meaningful fixtures throughout the autumn.
Who Qualifies from England?
The Premier League sends its top four finishers directly to the league phase, plus a fifth place slot via the Europa League path. In 2026/27, that means five English clubs competing for European glory from September.
Betting on the Champions League
The outright winner market opens in July each year. Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Arsenal are typically the early favourites, though surprise packages regularly emerge once the draw is made.
Follow elToroTips for Champions League betting tips throughout the 2026/27 season — published before every matchday with expert analysis and value picks.