WCL: Nine teams to qualify directly for new format Champions League 2025-26
The news yesterday that the much-welcomed format change to the Women’s Champions League (WCL) from the 2025-26 season, means nine teams will qualify directly.
One of the big criticisms of the current format is that only four teams qualify directly for a 16-team group stage.
The new format will see the tournament switch to an 18-team league – including the champions of the six top-ranked national associations.
It means the winners of the Women’s Super League (WSL) currently ranked fourth, will directly qualify.
The runners-up of the two top-ranked associated will also be guaranteed direct qualification, along with the previous season’s winners.
Currently only the holders and champions of the three top-ranked leagues – now Spain, Germany and France – qualify automatically for the group stages.
WSL champions Chelsea only qualified directly this season because Spanish champions Barcelona had already secured their place by winning last year’s competition.
Manchester United and Arsenal, who finished second and third in the WSL respectively, were beaten in qualifying.
Governing body Uefa has also confirmed the new second women’s European competition will be a straight knockout format.
The tournament will feature six rounds, with the final played over two legs.