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UEFA Champions League Unveils Controversial New 36-Team Format

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The UEFA Champions League has adopted a new 36-team format, triggering debate on improvement.
Proposals include splitting the league phase into two sections, letting teams choose playoff opponents, and treating the phase as a mini-season.
Critics say the current system yields mismatched knockout-round pairings, diminishing excitement.
Some observers say the format has produced memorable moments, while the knockout rounds remain the highlight.

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Story summary

The UEFA Champions League has adopted a new 36-team format, triggering debate on improvement.
Proposals include splitting the league phase into two sections, letting teams choose playoff opponents, and treating the phase as a mini-season.
Critics say the current system yields mismatched knockout-round pairings, diminishing excitement.
Some observers say the format has produced memorable moments, while the knockout rounds remain the highlight.