Overview

• The reigning titleholder will host the first match of each Champions League season, replacing the usual slate of Tuesday fixtures.
• All other teams will begin on Wednesday and Thursday, with five of the former Tuesday games shifted later in the week.
• UEFA and participating clubs approved the change to spotlight the champion and give all clubs greater visibility.
• The reform takes effect with the 2027 campaign as the competition continues in its 36-team league-phase format.
• UEFA has not indicated whether the Women’s Champions League will adopt a comparable opening match.