European Super League returns with new name in direct challenge to UEFA

It has been over three years since the original breakaway attempt collapsed within 48 hours following widespread fan protests.

The organisers, A22, have now returned with a redesigned proposal which they believe addresses the criticisms of its predecessor.

The new format proposes 96 teams competing across four interconnected tiers, ensuring qualification is based on merit rather than automatic inclusion.

At the top level, the Star League will feature 16 clubs divided into two groups of eight, playing home-and-away fixtures.

A second-tier competition, the Gold League, will mirror this structure with another 16 teams.

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Below these, two additional divisions—Blue and Union—will consist of four leagues of eight sides each.

The Premier League, one of Europe's key markets, will have three guaranteed places in the Star League, two in the Gold League, and potentially up to five further spots spread across the lower competitions.

Unlike the previous, more controversial proposal, all positions in the tournament will be earned through domestic league performance, removing the notion of guaranteed places that caused uproar in 2021.

In addition to league qualification, spots in the Star League (2 places) and Gold League (7 places) will be determined through play-off rounds.

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The winners will automatically qualify for the top tier the following season, introducing a clear pathway for progression.

The 14 group stage games would span from September to April, according to the organisers.

The top four teams in each group would then advance to a two-legged quarter-final round. The competition would culminate in a 'final four' week, where single-leg semi-finals and a final would determine the eventual champion.

An official start date is yet to be finalised, but according to The Sun, the competition is aiming for a launch in September 2026.

Details regarding the prize money are also unconfirmed, but A22 —closely aligned with the vision of Real Madrid President Florentino Perez — has pledged £330 million in "solidarity" payments to support smaller clubs and nations.

The overall prize pool is anticipated to surpass the current combined total of £2 billion for the Champions League and £700 million for both the Europa League and Conference League.

A22 hopes this restructured format will win over critics by promoting competitive balance, financial sustainability, and opportunities for a broader range of clubs.