Stamford Bridge to Host Shakhtar's Champions League Matches

Chelsea has announced that Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk will play its 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, after the team had a disappointing 2025-2026 season, giving the London club Shakhtar the opportunity to host their European matches at their historic stadium in the English capital.

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

Chelsea stated in a statement: "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 unforgettable feelings and memories for both Ukrainian and English fans."