UCL knockout stage reportedly set to take a new format

Reports indicate that the knockout stage of the Champions League (UCL) might take on a new format ahead of the 2025/2026 season.

With the 2024/2025 knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) in its final stages, recent reports now indicate that the 2025/2026 season of the tournament might take on a new format as things progress.

According to Marca, the proposal would grant the top eight clubs from the 36-team league stage a home advantage for the second leg of knockout matches, extending through to the semi-finals. This modification is said to be close to approval and would place greater emphasis on results achieved during the initial stage of the competition.

Under the revised approach, league-phase rankings would determine the home-away order of knockout matches. For ties involving teams from the top eight, the higher-placed side would host the decisive second leg.

This new priority system would apply up to the semi-finals, while the final would continue to be played at a neutral venue. UEFA remains optimistic about the revamped competition format and views this change as a logical step toward refining the structure. While no further alterations are under consideration, the home-leg advantage, if introduced, could significantly impact the competitiveness of the knockout rounds.

It remains to be seen if these changes will be implemented as things progress.

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