The European Handball Federation (EHF) has just green-lit sweeping reforms to its flagship men’s club competitions. From the 2026/27 season onward, the EHF Champions League will feature 24 teams, while the EHF European League will launch a revamped format with 32 teams entering straight into the group phase.
The format will open with six groups of four teams each. The top two in each group move into the main round while the 3rd and 4th placed sides drop into the European League – giving them a second chance at continental competition. In the main round, 12 teams will be split into two groups of six, playing home and away.
The top four from each group advance to the quarter-finals, while the two teams finishing 5th will enter the Last 16 of the European League. The ultimate climax remains the celebrated Final4.
European League – a straight 32-team group phase
Gone is the qualifying round. Starting 2026/27, 32 clubs will begin with group play (eight groups of four teams). The top two in each group proceed to the playoffs and will be joined by 12 clubs dropping from the Champions League group phase. From there, 14 playoff winners plus the two 5th-placed Champions League teams will fill the Last 16. This integration between the two competitions means more clubs get meaningful European matches and fans get more continuity and engagement.
Consultation with stakeholders
EHF President Michael Wiederer stressed that the changes come after months of consultation with clubs, leagues, federations, and players’ representatives. Importantly, the total match count in the Champions League remains unchanged, and the re-structure will ease spring fixture congestion. The calendar alignment with national and international competitions is preserved, ensuring the handball calendar remains manageable. Final details – including exact national allocation of places – will be decided by the EHF Executive Committee in December.
While the current reform applies to the men’s competitions, the EHF has confirmed that a similar overhaul for the women’s Champions League and European League will follow in the 2027/28 season.