AFC moves to expand Elite Champions League to 32 teams

14/04/2026

RIYADH, April 14: The Competitions Committee of the Asian Football Confederation has approved a series of major structural reforms to the AFC Elite Champions League, aimed at boosting both competitiveness and commercial value, starting from the 2026–27 season.

Central to the changes is an expansion of the tournament from 24 to 32 clubs. The new format will split teams evenly, with 16 clubs each from the West and East regions, creating more opportunities for top sides to meet earlier in the competition and encouraging higher professional standards across domestic leagues.

Further adjustments will be introduced to the knockout qualification system in seasons following the 2026–27 edition. Teams finishing from first to sixth in each region will qualify directly for the round of 16.

Clubs placed seventh to tenth will enter a newly introduced playoff round to determine the remaining spots in the knockout stage. Teams finishing seventh and eighth will host their playoff matches, rewarding stronger group-stage performances.

The proposals are subject to final approval by the AFC Executive Committee. If ratified, the changes are expected to mark a significant step in elevating the competition’s global standing and commercial appeal.