The 2026/27 campaign marks the 56th edition of the UEFA Europa League and the 18th since the competition was renamed from the UEFA Cup. This is the third season under the new format, which continues to reshape how Europe’s second-tier competition operates.
Qualifying rounds begin on 9 July 2026. The first round runs 9 & 16 July, followed by the second round on 23 & 30 July. Teams then face off in the third round on 6 & 13 August, with play-offs on 20 & 27 August 2026 to complete the qualifying phase before the league stage starts.
Thirty-six teams will enter the league phase. Twelve qualify directly, with one spot reserved for the UEFA Conference League title holders. Another 12 teams earn places through the qualifying rounds and August’s play-offs. The remaining 11 spots go to teams eliminated from the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round and play-offs.
On 28 August 2026, the league phase draw takes place. Matchday one kicks off on 16/17 September. The knockout stage opens with play-offs on 18 & 25 February 2027, the Round of 16 on 11 & 18 March, quarter-finals on 8 & 15 April, and semi-finals on 29 April & 6 May 2027.
The final takes place on 26 May 2027 in Frankfurt at Stadion Frankfurt. The stadium opened in 1925 and has hosted major tournaments: five games during UEFA EURO 2024, matches at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Winners claim real prizes. The champion secures a place in the 2027/28 UEFA Champions League league phase if domestic qualification hasn’t already been secured. They also earn a matchup against the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League winners in the 2027 UEFA Super Cup.
The trophy itself is substantial. The UEFA Europa League trophy weighs 15kg—the heaviest piece of UEFA silverware in existence.