The 2024/25 Champions League season has brought not only a brand-new format, but also record-breaking financial rewards. With the competition more lucrative than ever, just qualifying for the league phase guarantees clubs a major payday.
While sporting glory remains the ultimate goal, the prize money on offer has become a driving force in modern football. Here’s a full breakdown of how much each stage of this season’s tournament is worth.
League phase participation – £15,700,000
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Every club that qualifies for the new league phase is guaranteed £15.7 million. It’s a huge payday before a single ball is even kicked.
A draw in the league phase earns £590,000. Even a single point comes with a solid financial return.
League-phase win – £1,800,000
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Each win is worth £1.8 million. With up to eight matches to play, clubs can earn big just in the group stage.
Top-eight league phase finish – £1,700,000
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Finishing in the top eight brings in a £1.7 million bonus. These teams also avoid the extra playoff and go straight to the Round of 16.
9th to 16th league phase finish – £900,000
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Teams that place between 9th and 16th still receive £900,000. It’s a reward for advancing, even if a playoff is still required.
Round of 16 – £9,300,000
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Progressing to the Round of 16 earns clubs £9.3 million. The knockout rounds are where the serious money starts rolling in.
Quarter-final – £10,600,000
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Reaching the quarter-finals is worth £10.6 million. For many clubs, that’s a significant share of their total annual revenue.
Semi-final – £12,700,000
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A place in the semi-finals brings in £12.7 million. At this stage, clubs are just one match away from the final – and a massive payout.
Runner-up – £15,600,000
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Even if a team loses in the final, it still receives £15.6 million. It’s a strong financial consolation despite the heartbreak.
Winner – £21,100,000
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The Champions League winner in 2024/25 will earn £21.1 million for the final alone. Including earlier round bonuses, the champion could walk away with well over £60 million.
