The 2025/26 Champions League league phase draw takes place on a Thursday evening when Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham find out their opposition for the season.
That is the second edition for the reformulated league phase system where each club is facing eight different clubs – two each in pot one to four. That is a combined eight games: four at their own stadia and four away. Last term’s first campaign in the rearranged format was won by Paris Saint-Germain as they lifted their first-ever Champions League title.
Arsenal secured their place by finishing second in the Premier League, Chelsea qualified by taking fourth spot, and Spurs booked their ticket by winning the Europa League. All three London clubs will now be hoping for a favourable set of fixtures to set them on the path towards the knockouts.
Where and when is the draw?
The ceremony will be held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, with proceedings officially starting at 5pm UK time. While fans may tune in hoping to immediately discover who their club is playing, the actual drawing of teams takes place later in the evening. UEFA traditionally uses this stage to showcase highlights, celebrate achievements, and remind viewers how the competition works before getting down to the business of drawing balls from pots.
Who will be involved in the ceremony?
Reshmin Chowdhury returns as the main presenter, supported by Pedro Pinto and Giorgio Marchetti, UEFA’s competitions director who usually explains the rules of the draw.
As in previous years, a selection of “special guests”, often former Champions League legends, will help draw the balls. These figures bring a mix of star power and nostalgia to the evening.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin will officially open proceedings at 5.03pm with a short address.
What is the running order of events?
UEFA has already confirmed a detailed schedule for the night:
5.03pm – Opening: Aleksander Čeferin is introduced to the audience.
Chelsea tribute: A short segment dedicated to Chelsea, recognising their Club World Cup triumph, with a former Blues star in attendance.
Highlights reel: A video montage celebrating moments from last season, followed by a refresher on the new league phase format.
The President’s Award, which recognizes contributions to football both on and off the field, is announced and presented.
Introduction of another special guest: Typically another ex-Champions League star.
Draw explanation: Giorgio Marchetti steps on stage to outline the rules and mechanics of how the pots and fixtures will be paired.
The draw itself:
- 5.31pm: Pot one is drawn.
- 5.44pm: Pot two is drawn.
- 5.55pm: Pot three is drawn.
- 6.03pm: Pot four is drawn.
For Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham, the draw will shape the months ahead in Europe. Tough ties against Europe’s elite are guaranteed, but so too is the chance to carve out historic runs in the competition under the revamped format.
