UEFA is reportedly exploring significant changes to the qualification format for both the FIFA World Cup and the European Championship. The governing body aims to make the qualifiers more competitive and engaging, reducing one-sided matches between Europe’s top nations and lower-ranked teams.
According to L’Équipe, UEFA is currently evaluating two potential scenarios:
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Option 1: Make the Nations League the main qualifying route for major tournaments.
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Option 2: Adopt a system similar to the new Champions League format, where all teams compete in a single league table without return fixtures. A unified ranking would then determine both the direct qualifiers and the playoff spots.
UEFA officials believe the current format is outdated, arguing that a modernized system would increase competitiveness, boost fan interest, and raise commercial value through more balanced and meaningful matches.
However, any changes would not be implemented before 2028, as the ongoing 2024–2028 cycle has already been sold to broadcasters and will follow the existing qualification structure.
