Stamford Bridge Hosts Shakhtar's Champions League Matches

Chelsea FC has announced that Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk will play their home matches in the group stage of the Champions League at Stamford Bridge during the 2026-2027 season, following the necessary regulatory approvals.

This move comes in light of Chelsea's failure to qualify for European competitions next season, following a disappointing 2025-2026 campaign. This gives the London club Shakhtar the opportunity to host its European matches at its historic venue in the English capital.

Shakhtar had played their European matches in recent years in several cities outside Ukraine due to the war, including Hamburg, Germany, and Warsaw, Poland, before settling on Stamford Bridge for their Champions League campaign next season.

Chelsea stated: "We look forward to welcoming Shakhtar to London during their Champions League campaign this year, and we will work closely with the club over the coming weeks to ensure match days are safe and smooth for the players and their fans."

Shakhtar expressed its happiness with this step, confirming that playing its Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge represents a special opportunity for the club, while thanking Chelsea for allowing this historic stadium to host its matches.

The Ukrainian club added: "Stamford Bridge is one of the most famous stadiums in world football, with an exceptional history and atmosphere. We are confident that Shakhtar's matches in London will provide Ukrainian and English fans with unforgettable feelings and memories."