EHF Champions League set for 24-team format from next season?
Rumors are growing louder that the men’s EHF Champions League will switch to a 24-team format from next season. The final approval is expected from the Executive Committee of the European Handball Federation, while the Icelandic outlet Handkast tried to shed light on the possible system.
Group Stage
24 teams would be split into four groups of six.
The top three from each group would advance to the main round (TOP 12).
The fourth-placed teams would continue their European campaign in the EHF European League.
Main Round
The 12 qualified teams would be divided into two groups of six.
From there, four places per group would lead directly into the quarterfinals.
Knockout Phase
The quarterfinals mark the start of the elimination stage.
The winners would progress to the Final4, which remains unchanged in format.
Match Load & Calendar
The new structure would keep the same number of matches as the current system:
10 matches in the group phase
up to 6 matches in the main round (if points are carried over)
2 quarterfinal legs
2 Final4 matches
Total: 20 games, meaning the calendar would not be heavily disrupted, while more teams and more countries would gain the opportunity to compete at the top level.
This format looks like a balanced compromise between keeping the competition elite and expanding its reach.
