While the UEFA Champions League often steals the spotlight in European football, it’s essential not to overlook the other two significant tournaments under UEFA’s umbrella: the Europa League and the Europa Conference League. These competitions offer thrilling football action and opportunities for a wider range of clubs to shine on the European stage. Here’s a comprehensive look at these tournaments, their formats, and the teams that participate.
What is the UEFA Europa League?
The Europa League is the second-most prestigious club competition in European football. Established in 2009 as the successor to the UEFA Cup, it has provided a platform for teams across Europe to compete for glory. Until the 2023/2024 season, the tournament followed a format similar to the Champions League, with a group stage followed by knockout rounds. However, a significant change will see the competition adopt a league format, featuring a single table.
Key Facts:
- Number of Teams: Previously, 32 teams competed in the group stage. Starting from the next edition, 36 teams will be featured.
- Qualification: Teams qualify based on their domestic league positions and their country’s UEFA ranking. For example, the fifth and sixth-placed teams from Spain’s La Liga qualify directly, while other leagues may have different criteria.
- Prize and Rewards: The winner earns a spot in the following season’s Champions League and receives €8.6 million in prize money.
The Reigning Europa League Champions
Atalanta currently holds the title, having triumphed over Bayer Leverkusen with a convincing 3-0 victory in the recent final. This win marked Atalanta’s first major European success, highlighted by a hat-trick from Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman. Historically, Sevilla is the most successful club in the competition, boasting five titles.
Introducing the UEFA Europa Conference League
The Europa Conference League is UEFA’s newest club competition, launched in the 2021/2022 season. It serves as a platform for teams from lower-ranked leagues to compete in European competitions, offering more clubs the chance to experience international football.
Key Facts:
- Number of Teams: Initially featuring 32 teams in the group stage, the competition will expand to 36 teams in the upcoming edition.
- Qualification: Teams qualify based on their domestic league performance, with a focus on providing opportunities for clubs from lower-ranked leagues. Higher-ranked leagues have one representative who must go through qualification rounds.
- Prize and Rewards: The winner earns a spot in the following season’s Europa League and receives €5 million in prize money.
The Journey to European Glory
The inaugural Europa Conference League final saw Roma emerge victorious over Feyenoord, while the subsequent season’s final featured West Ham United defeating Fiorentina. This year’s final will be held on May 29th, with Olympiakos and Fiorentina vying for the title at the OPAP Arena in Athens.
Future of European Competitions
UEFA’s decision to restructure its club competitions into a league format starting next season aims to provide more balanced and competitive tournaments. This shift reflects a broader trend in sports towards league-based systems that can offer more consistent and exciting matchups throughout the season.
