UEFA Revamps Nations League Format Ahead of Euro 2028
UEFA has announced a significant change to the Nations League format, set to take effect after Euro 2028. This marks the second alteration in the tournament's format since its inception in 2018, coinciding with its 10th anniversary. Currently, the Nations League comprises four leagues (A-D), where nations are ranked and compete in groups of four and three. Group winners in League A progress to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals, while group winners in lower leagues earn promotion, and the bottom teams face relegation. The results from the Nations League also impact qualification for the Euros and World Cup, providing teams with a potential play-off route if they fail to qualify through regular campaigns. A final decision on the new format will be made in September during an Executive Committee meeting. Key Changes to the Nations League: Reduction of leagues from four to three, involving 18 teams. Each league will feature groups of six, with League C having one group of seven. Teams will play five matches against different opponents, both home and away. The play-off and final eight systems remain unchanged. Changes to European Qualifying: The qualifying campaign will now split into League 1 (36 teams from Nations Leagues A and B) and League 2 (19 teams from Nations League C). League 1 will consist of three groups of 12, with each team playing six matches. The top teams in League 1 qualify directly to the Euros, while others enter a play-off. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin emphasized that these changes aim to reduce the number of 'dead games' and enhance competitive balance, promising a more dynamic experience for fans. He expressed optimism about boosting the value of UEFA men’s national team football with the new competition systems.
Source: Football España - 2026-05-21