Michael Wiederer: At least 14 countries to play EHF Champions League
EXEC EHF made an important decisions about EHF Champions League and EHF European League place distribution, EHF chairman, Michael Wiederer talked for eurohandball.com about the future of the competitions:
- It is important to note that the reform of the EHF Champions League and the EHF European League is the result of an in-depth discussion process over several months, involving key stakeholders of European handball, such as the leagues, the clubs, players’ representatives and the federations. Everyone was involved and everyone had the opportunity to contribute.
There was a common understanding to increase the number of participating teams and involve more teams. The EHF Champions League with 24 teams continues to be the premium competition of European club handball, summoning the best of the best and reaching more markets than in previous years. Teams from at least 14 different countries will be participating.
Under the new system a total of 132 matches will be played, the same number as in the current format. At the same time there will be one round less in spring. Therefore, we are reducing players’ load in a crucial time for many leagues.
For the EHF European League with 32 teams, we are offering a system which provides a high degree of planning security for all participants as the competition starts right with the group phase – and no qualification matches are included.
Furthermore, we link the EHF Champions League and the EHF European League to increase and strengthen the quality of matches and the competitiveness. Eventually 14 teams which are relegated from the EHF Champions League will join the EHF European League either in the play-offs or for the Last 16 – said Michael Wiederer.
The possibility of including non-European clubs is a novelty. What is the reason for this?
Michael Wiederer: This is an option which will need very careful considerations including the obligation of coordination with other continental federations, the respective federations of potential clubs and all steps taken in harmony with the International Handball Federation. Furthermore, any possible admission would be limited by geographical proximity and to clubs on the highest level. At the same time we have to consider the quality standards and this might in the future as well result in a certain number of licensed clubs to secure the backbone of our top competitions.
