Reports indicate that UEFA and proponents of the European Super League — now largely represented by A22 Sports, with backing from clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona — are in advanced discussions over a potential revamp of the Champions League format, set to begin in 2027 when broadcast rights are renewed. One of the proposals reportedly on the table would retain the 36-team structure but divide the competition into two tiers of 18 teams each, based on UEFA coefficient rankings.
The top 18 clubs would compete exclusively against other elite teams in the league phase, while the remaining 18 would play one another in a separate bracket, ensuring a fairer balance of competition across levels.
Progression to the knockout rounds would also undergo key adjustments. Under the proposed system, the top eight teams from the higher tier would automatically advance to the Round of 16. The remaining spots would be determined through a playoff phase involving both the top- and lower-tier teams, creating more competitive matches and a wider chance for upsets.
Another major aspect of the plan involves broadcasting. Instead of relying on traditional TV networks, UEFA and the Super League organizers are reportedly considering the launch of a new global streaming platform called UNIFY, which would serve as the exclusive home for live matches. The platform would reportedly offer two versions: a free, ad-supported service and a premium, ad-free tier for subscribers. This move is designed to make the competition more accessible to global fans and to modernize revenue distribution, cutting out many of the middlemen in existing TV deals.
Read Also: Kompany’s Bayern Set Blistering Records In Wild Start
While some reports suggest this could represent a “merger” between UEFA and the Super League, sources clarify that these are more like peace negotiations or compromise proposals rather than a full structural union. The two organizations are still working through major disagreements, particularly concerning governance, qualification criteria, and revenue sharing. It’s also unclear how domestic leagues would respond to such a shift, as many fear it could deepen the gap between Europe’s elite and smaller clubs.
If approved, the revamped tournament could debut in 2027, coinciding with the start of UEFA’s next commercial rights cycle. However, as of now, the proposal remains under discussion, and no formal agreement has been finalized.