UEFA Women’s Champions League transformed following consultation with ECA Member Clubs

ECA is dedicated to developing  the women’s game at club level as part of its ambition to place clubs at the Heart of Football. Following feedback from ECA Members on the need to enhance and update the UWCL, a number of changes have been approved. These include a revamp of the format via the introduction of a group stage of 16 teams, preceded by a qualifying phase split into champions and league paths, as well as a new commercial concept blending club and centralised sponsorship.

The decision comes following a collaborative consultation between UEFA and ECA via a dedicated Working Group representing the full range of the ECA Women’s Football Committee’s membership.

Commenting on the decision, Jean-Michel Aulas, ECA Women’s Football Committee Chairman and President of six-time UWCL winner Olympique Lyonnais, stated:

“Football is the world’s number one sport and fans are increasingly calling for the further development of the women’s game.

The spotlight on women’s football has come about against the backdrop of growing and widespread commitment to gender equality in daily and professional life, not just in sports.

The reforms to the UEFA Women’s Champions League, approved today by the UEFA Executive Committee, are a huge step in the professionalisation of women’s club football.

We, as clubs, are confident that more games of quality for the top women’s teams in Europe will help to develop the game and inspire the next generation of women’s footballers.”