UEFA Champions League Considers Eliminating Extra Time, Possibly Heading Straight to Penalties
The UEFA Champions League is contemplating a meaningful change to its knockout stage format, potentially removing extra time and proceeding directly to penalty shootouts, according to reports. This move aims to reduce player workload, a frequent concern voiced by players.
UEFA Weighs benefits Against Potential Revenue Loss
While the proposal addresses concerns about player fatigue, UEFA is also considering the financial implications.Eliminating the 30 minutes of extra time could lead to a loss of advertising revenue, both from television broadcasts and in-stadium placements.
Decision Pending, Current Format remains for Now
The final decision has not yet been made. The current Champions League season, culminating in the final in Munich, will continue with the existing format, including extra time if needed. UEFA is expected to make a final determination at the end of the season.

Champions League Already Underwent Format changes
This potential change comes after the UEFA Champions League already implemented a new format this season, introducing a league phase and playoffs.

Based on the article, what trade-offs is UEFA weighing when considering this change to the Champions League format – specifically, what is gained versus what is potentially lost?
UEFA Champions League considers Eliminating Extra Time, Possibly heading Straight to Penalties
The UEFA Champions League is contemplating a meaningful change to its knockout stage format, potentially removing extra time and proceeding directly to penalty shootouts, according to reports. This move aims to reduce player workload, a frequent concern voiced by players.
UEFA Weighs benefits Against Potential Revenue Loss
While the proposal addresses concerns about player fatigue, UEFA is also considering the financial implications.Eliminating the 30 minutes of extra time could lead to a loss of advertising revenue, both from television broadcasts and in-stadium placements.
Decision Pending, Current Format remains for Now
The final decision has not yet been made. The current Champions League season, culminating in the final in munich, will continue with the existing format, including extra time if needed. UEFA is expected to make a final determination at the end of the season.
Champions League Already Underwent Format changes
This potential change comes after the UEFA Champions League already implemented a new format this season, introducing a league phase and playoffs.
Champions League: Q&A
Why is UEFA considering eliminating extra time?
The primary reason is to reduce player fatigue. Extra time adds 30 minutes of intense play, increasing the risk of injuries and impacting players’ recovery, especially in crucial knockout stage matches.
What are the downsides of this potential change?
The biggest concern is the potential loss of revenue. Extra time provides additional opportunities for advertising and can extend broadcast times,generating more income for UEFA and its partners.
When will a decision be made?
UEFA is expected to announce its final decision at the end of the current Champions league season. So, the current format, including extra time, will remain in place for the remainder of this season.
Has the Champions League changed its format recently?
Yes, this season the Champions League introduced a new format, including a league phase and playoffs. This is a notable overhaul aimed at increasing the number of games and making the competition more engaging.
Is this change common in other competitions?
Yes,some domestic cup competitions already skip extra time and go straight to penalties to save player workload,but the Champions League is a major competition and this change would be very significant.
Keep an eye out for updates as the season progresses; this format change could dramatically alter the way we watch and enjoy the Champions League!