Get ready, soccer fans! The Champions League is set for a major shake-up between 2027 and 2033, and while it’s bringing a notable financial boost to participating clubs, don’t expect a free-to-air broadcast or a radical format change. sources deeply embedded in the negotiations confirm that UEFA’s competition marketing has been in the works for a considerable time, with full backing from UEFA and the clubs themselves. Crucially, this development is entirely separate from A22, the entity behind the controversial Super League project.
The lucrative broadcasting rights for the Champions League from 2027 to 2033 will be managed by UC3, a joint venture formed by the European Club Association (ECA) and UEFA. In the coming weeks, a tender process will be launched in key European markets, including Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and germany. The marketing of these rights will be handled by Relevant, taking over from the previous marketing agency, team Marketing.
These sources are adamant that all decisions regarding format and audiovisual tenders are meticulously approved by the UC3 Board of Directors. They emphasize that A22 has had absolutely no involvement in these crucial discussions.
Representing the ECA on the audiovisual rights working group are prominent clubs such as Atlético madrid, Inter Milan, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich.
Barcelona to Attend ECA Assembly Amidst Super League Speculation
While the core format remains unchanged, expect exciting innovations in the audiovisual realm for the new Champions League era. These advancements will focus on enhanced content delivery, including new camera angles and more compelling storytelling. However, the idea of free-to-air broadcasts or a division into two 18-team groups is off the table. What is confirmed is a ample increase in revenue, with sources stating it will be “much more” for the clubs involved.
Both UEFA and the ECA believe that recent maneuvers are orchestrated by A22 or Real Madrid,aiming to gain traction for their Super League ambitions.They suspect these entities are attempting to capitalize on the marketing of the new Champions League, a claim that has been vehemently denied. The potential departure of Barcelona from the A22 project could be another significant blow to the Super League, a concept that major European clubs increasingly view as a non-starter. In related news,Barcelona has confirmed its attendance at the upcoming ECA Assembly this week.
