Champions League Draw 2025/26: Swiss System Format Applies

The 2025/26 Champions League draw is one of the most anticipated moments in the European football calendar. Held at the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco, on August 28, 2025, this event brings an atmosphere full of intrigue, curiosity, and of course, surprises. More than just determining who plays whom, this edition feels different because UEFA is introducing a new format that will change the face of the competition from the initial phase.

New Format: Swiss System for the Champions League

If previously the Champions League used a group stage with 32 teams, now the number of participants has increased to 36 clubs. The biggest change is the match system, which resembles the Swiss system. Each team will play 8 matches: 4 home and 4 away. Opponents will be drawn from four different pots, ensuring that each club faces opponents of varying levels.

This rule makes the competition more balanced, yet also more challenging. There are no longer “easy” or “safe” groups. Every team must be ready from the first match, as tough opponents can come from any pot. In addition, old rules still apply: clubs from the same country will not face each other in the early phase.

UEFA believes this new format will improve the quality of the competition, increase the number of big matches, and provide a more valuable experience for fans. However, on the other hand, this format also raises concerns. Many clubs worry that a packed schedule with strong opponents will make the early phase too difficult.

Potential “Group of Death” Feared

This season’s draw pots are indeed full of big names.

• Pot 1: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, PSG, Bayern Munich
• Pot 2: Atlético Madrid, Villarreal, Arsenal, Juventus
• Pot 3: Tottenham, Napoli, Ajax
• Pot 4: Athletic Club, Newcastle United, Galatasaray, Monaco

From this composition alone, the potential for a “group of death” is very real. Imagine if Barcelona had to face PSG from Pot 1, Napoli from Pot 3, and Newcastle from Pot 4. Or another scenario, Real Madrid could be challenged by Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Galatasaray at once.

Spanish media have even coined the term “sorteo de la muerte”, or “draw of death,” because giant teams could clash earlier than expected.

Besides the new Swiss System format and the balanced pot composition, there are several side stories that add color. UEFA, for example, has just announced a rule for next season: preventing two clubs from playing in the same stadium up to four times in a row. Although not yet in effect, this rule has been a hot topic of discussion among coaches and pundits.

There is also interesting news for Chelsea fans. The London club will receive a special award from UEFA for being the first team to successfully win all major European competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, Cup Winners’ Cup, and Conference League. This award will be presented directly by UEFA president, Aleksander Čeferin, during the draw event.

What Does This Mean for Clubs and Fans?

For big clubs, this draw will determine how quickly they need to deploy their full strength. There is no time for long adaptation. The first match could immediately pit them against tough opponents. This means team management, player rotation, and strategy will be very influential from the start of the season.

For clubs from lower pots, such as Newcastle or Galatasaray, this draw is also an opportunity to prove themselves. Facing world-class opponents from the start can be a valuable experience, as well as a chance to pull off surprises.

Meanwhile, for fans, this draw brings a different sensation. There will no longer be “boring groups” that only feature one or two big matches. Almost every match has the potential to be a main event.

The 2025/26 Champions League draw marks the beginning of a new era in Europe’s most prestigious club competition. The new format presents both challenges and opportunities, making every match feel important and meaningful.

Although there are concerns about the crowded schedule and the risk of a “group of death,” the fact is that this is precisely what makes the event even more interesting. Fans are eagerly awaiting, clubs are preparing to face tough opponents, and UEFA hopes this system will increase global appeal.One thing is certain: this season will be anything but easy. The 2025/26 Champions League will be a long journey, full of drama, and anyone can get caught on a difficult path from the start. And perhaps, that is precisely where the beauty of European football lies: no certainty other than surprises.