New rules for champions league qualification

The UEFA Champions League qualification process has undergone changes for the 2024-25 season. Here are the new rules:

Changes:

  1. Increased number of teams: The Champions League will now feature 36 teams in the group stage, up from 32.
  2. New qualifying format: The qualifying process will be divided into two paths: the Champions Path and the League Path.
  3. Champions Path: This path will feature teams that finish in the top four of their domestic league, but not in the top two. These teams will enter the competition in the third qualifying round.
  4. League Path: This path will feature teams that finish in the top two of their domestic league, as well as the winners of the domestic cup competitions. These teams will enter the competition in the second qualifying round.
  5. Play-off round: The winners of the Champions Path and the League Path will meet in a play-off round, with the winners advancing to the group stage.
  6. Group stage: The 36 teams will be divided into eight groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout phase.
  7. Knockout phase: The knockout phase will feature a round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final.

Key dates:

Other changes:

These changes aim to increase the competitiveness and excitement of the Champions League, while also providing more opportunities for teams to qualify for the competition.