News / News Bulletin

Europe's top 4 leagues to get 4 group-stage spots each

Saturday, 27 August 2016 12:41 AM [ Last Update: Saturday, 27 August 2016 12:41 AM ]

Formar Brazilian football player Roberto Carlos and Liverpool football legend Ian Rush stand under the draw for the groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H is displayed on a screen during the UEFA Champions League group stage draw ceremony, on August 25, 2016 in Monaco. (AFP)

European football’s governing body, UEFA, has announced drastic changes to Champions League’s format. Top leagues in Europe are the big winners from these changes!

UEFA has agreed to give Spain, Germany, England and Italy each 4 guaranteed group-stage places from the 2018 season.

Currently three teams qualify for the group stage of the continent’s premier club competition from each league with the only exception being the Italian Serie A where two sides are awarded entry with the third team being made to qualify through the play-offs.

A Champions League group-stage spot will also be guaranteed to the previous season's Europa League champions. The annual prize money to the 32 group-stage teams is also expected to be increased significantly.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.co.uk

Sport