In just a few short seasons, the UEFA Europa Conference League has emerged as one of the most compelling developments in European football. What was once seen as UEFA’s “third-tier” competition is now proving to be a legitimate platform for clubs looking to make their mark on the continent.
From historic clubs rebuilding their European credibility to underdogs seizing the moment, the Conference League is creating new storylines—and fresh opportunities.
The Vision Behind the Competition
Launched in the 2021–22 season, the UEFA Conference League was never just about expanding the fixture calendar. It was a response to the increasing gap between elite European clubs and everyone else. UEFA saw the need to give more clubs—especially from smaller associations—a real shot at European glory.
The result? A tournament that has brought continental football to fans in Tel Aviv, Bodø, Bratislava, and beyond.
“For us, the Conference League isn’t a step down. It’s a chance to step up.”
— Maccabi Tel Aviv Club Official
Swiss Format: More Fixtures, More Drama
Starting from the 2024–25 season, the tournament underwent a major format overhaul. The group stage was replaced by the Swiss league system, a model aimed at making every match more competitive and engaging.
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36 teams, one league table
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Each team plays six different opponents
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Top 8 qualify directly to the Round of 16
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Teams placed 9th–24th enter a knockout play-off
This format means no easy games, no dead rubbers, and no predictable paths. Clubs must earn every point—and every point counts.
Who Gets to Play?
Qualification for the Conference League is as inclusive as the competition’s vision. Clubs qualify by:
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Finishing just below Europa League spots in domestic leagues
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Winning national cups
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Dropping from Europa League qualifying rounds
This opens the door for a wide spectrum of clubs—from those chasing their first taste of Europe to former UCL regulars looking for a fresh start.
A New Stage for Underdogs and Icons
If the Champions League is about legacy, the Conference League is about discovery.
Some highlights so far:
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Bodø/Glimt stunned Roma with a 6–1 win in 2022
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West Ham United ended a 43-year trophy drought in 2023
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Olympiacos and Chelsea added prestige and star power as recent champions
These aren’t throwaway fixtures. These are meaningful, high-stakes battles, broadcast globally and celebrated by fans across all levels of the game.
Impact Beyond the Pitch
What’s most striking is how the Conference League has reshaped football ecosystems in smaller nations:
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Clubs gain valuable UEFA coefficient points
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Young players gain exposure and confidence
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Local fans enjoy midweek European football at home
Countries like Cyprus, Norway, and Israel have seen their clubs become stronger, both financially and competitively, thanks to this platform.
Media & Audience Growth
The initial skepticism around the tournament’s popularity has faded. UEFA’s media partners now see real value in these matchups.
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The 2023 Final between West Ham and Fiorentina drew over 15 million global viewers
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Social media buzz has surged, with highlights from underdog matches often outperforming UEL clips
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Broadcasters like Viaplay, CBS Sports, and DAZN have invested in multi-year rights
“It’s not just the final. People tune in for Matchday 2 just as eagerly as Matchday 6.”
— European Football Analyst, Goal.com
What’s at Stake?
Make no mistake—this is no minor trophy.
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Champions earn a direct place in the next UEFA Europa League
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Clubs take home prize money and prestige
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Fanbases expand as visibility increases
It’s also a launchpad. A strong showing in the Conference League can boost transfer interest, attract better sponsorships, and elevate a club’s entire brand profile.
A Look at the Champions
| Year | Winner | Final Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | AS Roma (ITA) | Feyenoord | 1–0 |
| 2023 | West Ham (ENG) | Fiorentina | 2–1 |
| 2024 | Olympiacos (GRE) | Fiorentina | 1–0 (ET) |
| 2025 | Chelsea (ENG) | Club Brugge | 3–0 |
Each winner adds to the growing legacy of the competition—and shows that winning it means something.
The Road Ahead
The UEFA Conference League is no longer an experiment—it’s a proven success. As more clubs take it seriously, fans embrace its freshness, and broadcasters invest in coverage, its future looks bright.
Expect to see:
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More clubs prioritizing the tournament
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Stronger competition from mid-tier leagues
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Potential format evolution as UEFA adapts to rising interest
Final Whistle
The Conference League has succeeded in its mission: to make European football more inclusive, competitive, and entertaining. It has given voice to the overlooked and added depth to the continental calendar.
For clubs dreaming of European silverware, for fans craving fresh rivalries, and for players wanting a bigger stage—this is where it starts.
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