When is the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League draw?
The 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league-phase draw is scheduled for August 27 in Monaco, following the conclusion of the play-offs. The new format features 36 clubs in a single league table, with each team facing eight different opponents.
Why it matters
This marks the implementation of a major structural change to Europe's premier club football competition, impacting how teams qualify and compete.
The 2026-27 UEFA Champions League will reach one of its biggest milestones before the league phase begins on Thursday, August 27, 2026 . The draw will take place in Monaco and determine the eight opponents for each of the 36 participating clubs.
The timing is significant because the draw comes immediately after the play-offs are completed. The second legs of that round are scheduled for August 25 and 26, meaning the full league-phase field will be known before the draw. Twenty-nine clubs qualify directly, while the remaining seven places go to the winners of the play-off ties.
When is the 2026-27 Champions League draw?
The league-phase draw is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, in Monaco . It will be the final major step before the main stage of the competition begins, with Matchday 1 set for September 8, 9 and 10.
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