Uefa new rules for champions league

UEFA has introduced several new rules for the Champions League starting from the 2024-25 season. Here are some of the key changes:

  1. New format: The Champions League will feature 36 teams, up from 32, with the top four teams from the top seven associations (England, Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Portugal, and the Netherlands) qualifying directly for the group stage.
  2. Group stage: The group stage will consist of 12 groups of three teams each, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout phase.
  3. Knockout phase: The knockout phase will feature a single-elimination format, with the winner of each tie advancing to the next round.
  4. Away goals rule: The away goals rule will be abolished, and the team with the most goals in the tie will advance.
  5. Extra time and penalties: If the score is level after 90 minutes, the match will go straight to a penalty shootout, without extra time.
  6. Video Assistant Referee (VAR): VAR will be used in the Champions League to help referees make decisions on penalties, goals, and direct red cards.
  7. Substitutions: Teams will be allowed to make five substitutions per match, with the option to make a sixth substitution in extra time.
  8. Injury time: The referee will no longer add injury time at the end of each half. Instead, the match will be played for the full 90 minutes, and any stoppages will be taken into account when determining the winner.
  9. Yellow and red cards: Yellow cards will no longer be shown for minor offenses, and players will be given a warning instead. Red cards will still be shown for serious offenses.
  10. FIFA's concussion protocol: The Champions League will adopt FIFA's concussion protocol, which requires players who have suffered a head injury to be removed from the game and undergo a medical assessment before returning to play.
  11. Environmental sustainability: UEFA has introduced several measures to reduce the environmental impact of the Champions League, including the use of electric vehicles, reduced energy consumption, and sustainable catering options.
  12. Fan engagement: UEFA has introduced several initiatives to improve fan engagement, including the use of virtual reality, augmented reality, and social media to enhance the fan experience.

These changes are designed to improve the competitiveness, excitement, and sustainability of the Champions League, while also enhancing the fan experience.