UEFA Champions League set for major changes from 2027
New format and TV rights strategy mark a major shift in how Europe’s top competition will be seen worldwide.
European soccer is gearing up for another major transformation. UC3, the joint venture uniting UEFA and Europe’s top clubs, has is planning major changes to both the Champions League format and how the competition will be broadcast.
How will the Champions League change in 2027?
Starting with the 2027/28 season, the defending champions will play their opening game at home during the first week of the competition. The match, held on Tuesday, will be the only Champions League fixture that night, marking the official start of the new campaign.
All other group-stage games will then take place on Wednesday and Thursday to give the champions’ opener exclusive attention before the rest of the first-week games.
New broadcast strategy for a new media landscape
Alongside the schedule change, UC3 revealed details of its next television rights tender, covering the 2027/28 season and the following four years. The organization aims to adapt to a shifting media landscape where streaming platforms and global digital outlets are becoming increasingly dominant.
For the first time, UC3 is launching simultaneous bidding in Europe’s five largest media markets - France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The process will allow for longer-term deals of up to four years, aligning the Champions League with other top-tier European sports properties.
UC3 has not given any indication as to whether television rights in the United States will be affected.
Longer contracts are intended to give both broadcasters and fans greater consistency while enabling strategic investment in coverage and promotion.
Global package to expand Champions League reach
In a major innovation, UC3 will introduce a “global first-pick” package granting rights to one marquee match per round. The goal is to appeal to international audiences, capture shifting viewing habits, and boost the competition’s worldwide reach.
The deadline for submitting bids is November 18, with the new broadcast partners expected to be announced early next year.
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