Champions League New Format: Two Seasons In, Has the Swiss System Delivered?

The Champions League's transition to the Swiss-system league phase has now been in operation for two complete seasons, providing enough data to make a meaningful assessment of whether UEFA's most significant structural reform has achieved its stated objectives of more competitive matches and increased commercial appeal.

On the competitive front, the evidence is mixed. The new format has undeniably produced more high-profile matchups during the league phase, with top clubs facing each other more frequently than the old group stage allowed. However, the final matchdays have sometimes lacked jeopardy, with many outcomes predetermined before the last round of fixtures.

Commercial metrics are more clearly positive. Broadcast audiences have increased, driven by the marquee matchups that the new format guarantees. Sponsorship revenues have risen as advertisers value the guaranteed exposure that comes from top clubs appearing in high-profile fixtures more regularly.

The knockout playoff round, introduced as a bridge between the league phase and the round of 16, has been the format's most pleasant surprise. These two-legged ties have produced dramatic football, with teams fighting for survival creating an intensity that enriches the overall tournament narrative.