Champions League at Stamford Bridge, but no Chelsea action as Shakhtar takes over

Shakhtar Donetsk will use Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge as their Champions League home for the 2026/27 campaign after years of playing European matches away from Ukraine.

Shakhtar Donetsk will stage their Champions League home matches at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge during the 2026/27 season, giving the Ukrainian club a settled European base after more than a decade of playing away from their traditional home.

The arrangement, which still requires the necessary regulatory approvals, was confirmed by both clubs and means Stamford Bridge will host Champions League football despite Chelsea missing out on European competition this season.

Shakhtar have been unable to return to the Donbas Arena in Donetsk since 2014 because of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and the continuing war, forcing the club to move its European fixtures between venues in several countries.

Their previous temporary homes have included stadiums in Germany, Poland and Slovenia, making the London agreement a significant change in their approach to European matches.

Stamford Bridge, with a capacity of about 40,000, will provide Shakhtar with a consistent venue while also placing the club closer to the sizeable Ukrainian community in London.

The move could also create an unusual atmosphere at Chelsea’s historic ground, with the stadium expected to host Shakhtar supporters for their European campaign.

Chelsea said they would work closely with Shakhtar to ensure their players and travelling fans have a safe and smooth experience on matchdays.

For Shakhtar, the arrangement offers more than a prestigious stadium; it provides stability to a club that has spent years adapting its European schedule because of circumstances beyond football.

The Ukrainian side now has the opportunity to build a strong identity in London while continuing its campaign on the continent.